Roaring Stag Hut to Cattle Ridge Track
WalkWellington
- Grade
- Advanced
- Walking time
- 2 hr
- Distance
- 2.18 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 starts at Roaring Stag Hut, which is accessed from Putara Road End by the Roaring Stag Track. You can also start this track from Cattle Ridge Hut.
Source: DOC Te Papa Atawhai.
Map and tracks
Track lines: DOC Te Papa Atawhai. Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Topo map: LINZ, CC BY 4.0. 40.73106° S, 175.51304° E
About this place
Tramp from Roaring Stag Hut onto Cattle Ridge in the Tararua Forest Park, for stunning views and access to Cattle Ridge Hut and Mt Dundas.
The route
This page is about Cattle Ridge in the Tararua Forest Park. Find information about Cattle Ridge Track in Remutaka Forest Park (near Orongorongo Track) . The track to Cattle Ridge starts at Roaring Stag Hut. Cross the Ruamahanga River using the suspension bridge, then follow the track across the forested river terrace. The track then climbs steeply to Cattle Ridge. The track is very steep the whole way up and you will be scrambling up tree roots. It is a tiring climb and easy to slip, so take your time on the track and go carefully. Some people will find that the climb takes them longer than two hours, so plan extra time. There are no water sources on the climb, carry plenty of water. Shortly before Cattle Ridge Hut, the track leaves the bush and enters low alpine scrub. The hut has spectacular views across the northern Wairarapa.
Source: DOC Te Papa Atawhai.
Know before you go
This track might take longer than you expect
While it is a short distance (only 2.18 km), the demanding climb, rough track and substantial gain in elevation mean that some people will find this track difficult. We recommend planning plenty of time, in case it takes longer than you expect.
Pack for bad weather
The Tararua tops are well known for their wild, fast-changing and unpredictable weather. Anytime you go into the Tararua Forest Park, pack warm and waterproof clothing (even if the forecast is good). Carry 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
Cattle Ridge Hut
Standard • 5 bunks • Wellington • 0.8 km
Cattle Ridge Hut is a standard five-bunk hut located in the Wairarapa region.
Heating • Mattresses • Toilets - non-flush
Roaring Stag Hut
Standard • 12 bunks • Wellington • 1 km
Roaring Stag Hut is a standard 12-bunk hut located in the Wairarapa region.
Heating • Mattresses • Toilets - non-flush
Dundas Hut
Standard • 6 bunks • Wellington • 4.3 km
Dundas Hut is a standard six-bunk hut located in the Wairarapa region.
Mattresses • Toilets - non-flush • Water from tap - not treated, boil before use
Herepai Hut
Standard • 10 bunks • Manawatū-Whanganui • 4.4 km
Herepai Hut is a standard 10-bunk hut located in the Wairarapa region.
Heating • Mattresses • Toilets - non-flush
Cow Creek Hut
Standard • 6 bunks • Wellington • 5.4 km
Cow Creek Hut is a standard six-bunk hut located in the Wairarapa region of Wellington.
Heating • Mattresses • Toilets - non-flush
Walks nearby
Dundas Circuit
Advanced • 3 days • 2.1 km away
Roaring Stag Track
Advanced • 4 hr • 2.31 km away
Lower Ruamahanga Track to Cow Creek Hut, via Cow Saddle
Advanced • 5 hr from Ruamahanga Gorge Road to Cow Creek Hut • 2.93 km away
Blue Range to Cow Creek Hut Track
Advanced • 3 hr • 5 km • 6.59 km away
Kiriwhakapapa to Blue Range Hut
Advanced • 2-3 hr • 3.36 km • 7.98 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).