Petrified Forest Walk
Alerts
Check the DOC website for current alerts and conditions before you go. This site gets current alert info from DOC, but is not an official source of information.
Easy access track to a well located viewing platform overlooking the famous petrified forest. Look out for Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, New Zealand sea lions and yellow-eyed penguins.
Elevation
Cover mapped summer 2023/24.
Description
This short, sealed track provides access from the roadside parking area through mature flax to a viewing platform overlooking the fossilised remains of an ancient forest. Interesting sign panels at the view point, explain the history and significance of the petrified forest.
At low tide the petrified forest can be explored- access via the steps from the viewing platform.
The track is wheelchair/buggy friendly to the viewing platform.
Getting there
Curio Bay is signposted from the Southern Scenic Route, which follows SH 92 through the Catlins from Invercargill to Balclutha.
Know before you go
No drones are allowed at the fossil forest.
Nature and conservation
In the summer Hector's dolphins/papakanua play in the surf. Yellow-eyed penguins/hoioho nest in the area around Curio Bay/Waikaawa and fur seals and sea lions regularly haul themselves out of the water along the coastline.
Weather
Forecast at the start of the track