Last updated November 2026
The Blue Range to Cow Creek Hut Track is a backcountry link in the Tararua Forest Park that drops from Blue Range into the Waingawa River valley and follows the river up to Cow Creek Hut, a DOC hut. DOC grades it an Advanced tramping track and times it at 3 hours over 5 km.
The track starts at a junction on Blue Range, around ten minutes from Blue Range Hut, so most people reach it by first climbing from Kiriwhakapapa Road end. It ends with a swing bridge over the Waingawa River to the hut.
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC had no alerts for the track, but check DOC before you go and tell someone your plans.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Blue Range to Cow Creek Hut Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Track junction on Blue Range, around 10 minutes from Blue Range Hut (reached from Kiriwhakapapa Road end), or from Cow Creek Hut in reverse
- Distance from the city
- About 49 km from Palmerston North
- Walking time
- 3 hr
- Track length
- 5 km
- Grade
- Advanced tramping track (DOC grade)
- Dogs
- Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times.
- Track type
- Tramping track: ridge descent and river valley
- Huts
- Cow Creek Hut at the valley end; Blue Range Hut near the start (DOC huts)
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
About Blue Range to Cow Creek Hut Track
This track turns a trip to Blue Range into a deeper journey into the Tararua Range. From the junction near the top of Blue Range, it follows a ridge off the range and then descends steeply into the Waingawa River valley.
On the valley floor the track heads upstream along the true left of the Waingawa River. Several unbridged side streams cross the route here, so check river levels and the forecast before you commit. The last step is a swing bridge across the Waingawa River to Cow Creek Hut.
DOC describes it as a typical Tararua backcountry track, rough and uneven with tree roots to scramble over. With a steep descent and stream crossings, it suits experienced trampers rather than first-timers.
Because the track joins two huts, it fits well into an overnight or multi-day trip. One option is to climb to Blue Range on the Kiriwhakapapa to Blue Range Hut Track and continue down to Cow Creek Hut.
Linking With Other Tracks
DOC lists two ways onto this track: from the Kiriwhakapapa to Blue Range Hut Track, or from Cow Creek Hut. Check the DOC pages for those tracks when planning how you will reach and leave this one.
River Crossings and Weather
If you plan to cross unbridged rivers or side streams, know how to cross them, and if the water is flooded or you can’t find clear entry and exit points, turn back or wait for it to drop. DOC suggests checking NIWA river flow forecasts.
The Tararua Forest Park is known for wild, fast-changing weather. Pack warm and waterproof clothing even if the forecast is good, and carry a torch, spare food, a distress beacon and an emergency shelter. Plan My Walk brings the forecast and gear list together, and you should leave your intentions with someone you trust.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Blue Range to Cow Creek Hut Track: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Department of Conservation: Tararua Forest Park: the wider park, Blue Range and Cow Creek huts, and park-wide alerts.
Plan My Walk: a free planner for weather, alerts and gear lists before a backcountry trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Blue Range to Cow Creek Hut Track take?
DOC times it at 3 hours over 5 km.
Where does it start?
At a track junction on Blue Range, about 10 minutes from Blue Range Hut. You can also walk it in reverse from Cow Creek Hut.
How do I get to Blue Range?
DOC says the track can be reached from the Kiriwhakapapa to Blue Range Hut Track. Check that track’s DOC page for its start and timing.
How hard is it?
It’s an Advanced tramping track with a steep descent into the Waingawa valley and several unbridged side streams.
How do I cross the Waingawa River?
A swing bridge crosses the Waingawa River to Cow Creek Hut.
Can I take my dog?
DOC’s rule is: dogs allowed, keep dog under control at all times.
Is the track open?
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC had no alert for the track. Check the DOC page for current alerts before you go.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Sources and data notes 1
- Track Facts: Track facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.