Blue Range to Cow Creek Hut Track
WalkWellington
- Grade
- Advanced
- Walking time
- 3 hr
- Distance
- 5 km
- Dogs
- Under control
Getting there
We have not checked a road end or car park for this place yet, so we do not give driving directions to it. Check how to get there before you go. Some routes cross private land and need the landowner's permission.
How to get there, on doc.govt.nzThis track can be accessed from the Kiriwhakapapa to Blue Range Hut Track, or from Cow Creek Hut.
Source: DOC Te Papa Atawhai.
Map
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Topo map: LINZ, CC BY 4.0. 40.78993° S, 175.50363° E
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About this place
A backcountry tramping track that joins Blue Range with Cow Creek Hut and the Waingawa River valley.
The route
The track begins at the track junction on Blue Range, around ten minutes from Blue Range Hut. It follows a ridge off Blue Range, then descends steeply into the Waingawa River valley. The track then follows the Waingawa River upstream on the true left, crossing several unbridged side streams. A swing bridge then gives access across the Waingawa River to Cow Creek Hut.
Source: DOC Te Papa Atawhai.
Know before you go
Expect a backcountry tramping track
This track is a typical Tararua backcountry tramping track. It is rough and uneven, and you can expect to be scrambling up and over tree roots.
Pack for bad weather
The Tararua Forest Park is well known for wild, fast-changing and unpredictable weather. Always check the weather forecast . Pack warm and waterproof clothing, even if the forecast is good. Carry emergency equipment including a torch, spare food, a distress beacon and an emergency shelter. Find a tramping packing list here
Stay safe when crossing rivers and streams
If you plan to cross unbridged rivers or side streams, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross. Do not cross if the river or stream is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out. How to cross rivers safely NIWA river flow forecasts: View a video of national followed by regional river flows
Source: DOC Te Papa Atawhai.
Nearby stops
Blue Range Hut
Standard • 4 bunks • Wellington • 1.3 km
Blue Range Hut is a standard four-bunk hut located in the Wairarapa region of Wellington.
Heating • Mattresses • Toilets - non-flush
Cow Creek Hut
Standard • 6 bunks • Wellington • 1.8 km
Cow Creek Hut is a standard six-bunk hut located in the Wairarapa region of Wellington.
Heating • Mattresses • Toilets - non-flush
Kiriwhakapapa Campsite
Standard • Wellington • 4.1 km
Kiriwhakapapa Campsite is a family campsite located beside a creek in the Wairarapa region. It is situated near an old logging area and an exotic redwood…
Non-powered/tent sites • Shelter for cooking • Toilets - flush
Arete Forks Hut
Standard • 6 bunks • Wellington • 4.9 km
Arete Forks Hut is a standard six-bunk hut located in the Wairarapa region.
Heating • Mattresses • Toilets - non-flush
Mitre Flats Hut
Standard • 14 bunks • Wellington • 5 km
Mitre Flats Hut is a standard 14-bunk hut located in the Wairarapa region.
Heating • Mattresses • Toilets - non-flush
Walks nearby
Waingawa River Track (Mitre Flats to Cow Creek)
Advanced • 3 hr 30 min • 7.3 km • 1.89 km away
Kiriwhakapapa to Blue Range Hut
Advanced • 2-3 hr • 3.36 km • 2.55 km away
Lower Ruamahanga Track to Cow Creek Hut, via Cow Saddle
Advanced • 5 hr from Ruamahanga Gorge Road to Cow Creek Hut • 3.89 km away
Kiriwhakapapa Loop Track
Easy • 1 hr • 2 km • 4.03 km away
Mitre Peak Track
Advanced • 2.66 km (to bush line) • 4.2 km away
Notes from people who have been
No notes yet. If you have been, say what you found.
Something missing or out of date?
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Sources
- DOC Tracks (API) · CC BY 4.0Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai. Data sourced from the DOC Developer Portal (api.doc.govt.nz).