The Sledge Track is one of the most-popular walking and tramping tracks easily reached from Palmerston North, climbing through native bush in the Tararua foothills south of the city. The track follows an old logging route up a forested stream valley, with bush, stream pools, views and varied terrain.
The track has multiple loop and partial options, allowing visitors to choose 1-2 hour easier walks, 3-4 hour main loops, or full-day extensions linking with the wider Kahuterawa Valley network. Sledge Track sits within easy reach of central PN and is one of the standard PN walker training and weekend-walk options.
Practical Information
| Location | Tararua foothills south of Palmerston North; access via Kahuterawa Road |
| Distance from PN | About 15-20 km south, 25-30 min drive |
| Length | Main loops 1-4 hours; full track extensions to longer day walks |
| Difficulty | Moderate; climbs and varied terrain; sturdy footwear essential |
| Surface | Formed bush track; mud after rain |
| Best for | Fit walkers, trail runners, native bush enthusiasts, weekend walks |
About the Sledge Track
The Sledge Track takes its name from the old logging sledges that once worked up the valley extracting timber. The track now winds through regenerating and mature native bush in the Tararua foothills, with a stream running alongside much of the route.
The track has multiple sections, allowing walkers to choose how much they want to do. Short walks of 1-2 hours give a sample of the bush and stream. The main loop of 3-4 hours covers the heart of the track and is the most-popular Sledge Track outing. Longer extensions link with the wider Kahuterawa Valley track network for full-day walks.
The track climbs progressively from the trailhead, with several steep sections. Sturdy footwear is essential, especially after rain when the bush track can be very muddy. The setting is genuinely bush rather than groomed park; this is part of the appeal.
What to See
The track passes through regenerating native bush including rimu, matai, tawa, tree ferns and the typical Tararua foothills understorey. Bush birds regularly seen include tui, kereru, fantail, silvereye, grey warbler and bellbird; early morning and late afternoon are most active.
Stream pools along the track include the well-known Sledge Track Swimming Hole and several smaller pools suitable for cool-down stops on warm summer days. The water is cold even in midsummer; quick dips rather than long swims.
Views open up at higher track points across the Kahuterawa Valley and toward the wider Manawatu plains. The view points are part of the reward for the climb.
Combining With Wider Kahuterawa
The Sledge Track sits within the wider Kahuterawa Valley recreation area, which also includes the Arapuke Forest Park MTB network and the Turitea Reserve bush walks. A full Kahuterawa day can combine multiple activities: a Sledge Track walk and swim, a Turitea Reserve bush walk, or a stop at Arapuke for those interested in the MTB scene.
The valley has limited shop or cafe options; bring food, water and supplies. The drive back to central PN takes 25-30 minutes; plan return timing to allow daylight finish for the walk.
What Visitors Often Say
PN walkers and trampers consistently rate the Sledge Track as one of the best native-bush walks easily reached from town. The combination of bush setting, stream features, views and multiple loop options draws specific positive mentions. The track is a regular training option for trampers heading into the wider Tararua Ranges.
Practical observations: sturdy footwear essential; very muddy after rain; allow more time than signposted estimates if wet; combine with a Sledge Track swim hole stop on summer days; tell someone your plans and expected return time.
Where to Learn More
PNCC: Kahuterawa Valley tracks: covers the wider Kahuterawa Valley track network including Sledge Track access and current status.
Department of Conservation: covers the wider Tararua foothills conservation context.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Sledge Track?
In the Kahuterawa Valley south of Palmerston North, about 15-20 km from the city centre via Kahuterawa Road.
How long is the walk?
Short walks 1-2 hours; main loop 3-4 hours; longer extensions to full-day walks.
Is it suitable for beginners?
The shorter loops are accessible to fit beginners with sturdy footwear. The full loop and extensions need more fitness and tramping experience.
Are there swim spots?
Yes, the well-known Sledge Track Swimming Hole and several smaller stream pools along the track.
Are there toilets?
Basic facilities at the trailhead; none along the track.
Can I bring my dog?
Check current PNCC dog rules for the Kahuterawa Valley; some sections may have restrictions for bush conservation.
Is it suitable in winter?
Yes for fit walkers in sturdy boots, but expect mud throughout. Avoid after heavy rain (flash flood risk in stream sections).
For more walks, see walking tracks in Palmerston North. Pair with Sledge Track swimming hole for a summer swim stop or Arapuke Forest Park for a fuller Kahuterawa Valley day.