Last updated November 2026
The Stanfield Hut to Cattle Creek Hut Track is a short hut-to-hut link in the Ruahine Forest Park, joining two DOC huts by way of river, bush and ridgeline. DOC grades it an Advanced tramping track and times it at 2 hours for 4 km one way.
The track leaves the river near Stanfield Hut, climbs steeply into the bush, then follows a ridge before dropping to Cattle Creek Hut. It lies about 49 km from Palmerston North and is best planned as part of a longer Ruahine trip, since both ends are huts rather than road ends.
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 Stanfield Hut to Cattle Creek Hut Track on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOC
Practical Information
- Start
- Stanfield Hut (the track can also be walked from Cattle Creek Hut)
- Distance from the city
- About 49 km from Palmerston North
- Walking time
- 2 hr one way
- Track length
- 4 km one way
- Grade
- Advanced tramping track (DOC grade)
- Dogs
- Dogs with a DOC permit for recreational hunting or management purposes only
- Track type
- Tramping track: river, bush and ridge
- Huts
- Stanfield Hut and Cattle Creek Hut (DOC Standard huts, 8 bunks each)
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
About Stanfield Hut to Cattle Creek Hut Track
From Stanfield Hut the first stretch follows the river upstream for about 400 m. Watch for an orange post and signage on the true left of the river, which mark where the track turns into the bush.
The climb out of the river is steep to begin with, then eases as the track works through the bush and out along a ridge. DOC mentions that from the ridge you get a welcome first sight of Cattle Creek Hut ahead.
At the track junction, take the left branch, which drops steeply towards the hut. You then follow the stream downstream for a few minutes before leaving it on the left for the last 50 m up to Cattle Creek Hut.
DOC sums it up as a varied walk, and in two hours it packs in river travel, a steep bush climb and ridge walking. It suits experienced trampers linking huts in the Ruahine, and makes a manageable short day between two nights in the hills.
The Huts
Both huts are DOC Standard huts with 8 bunk beds, a non-flush toilet and tap water that is not treated, so boil it before use. DOC’s facility lists for the two huts also include heating, mattresses and cooking facilities.
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC had an alert for the Ruahine Forest Park area: the water tank at Cattle Creek Hut had been drained for cleaning and repair, so don’t use water from the tap there.
DOC says there is a river nearby and to boil water before use. The track page doesn’t give booking or fee details, so check each hut’s page on the DOC website before you go.
River Conditions and Check, Clean, Dry
Part of this track follows the river and a stream. DOC warns it is dangerous to cross or follow the river when the water level is high, which can happen during or after heavy rain. If the river is up, wait for it to drop or change your plans.
DOC also asks trampers to clean all gear when moving between waterways, to stop the spread of didymo and other freshwater pests. Check, clean and dry boots, gaiters and anything else that has been in the water. Use Plan My Walk to check the forecast before you set out, and leave your intentions with someone you trust.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Stanfield Hut to Cattle 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: Ruahine Forest Park: tracks to Stanfield and Cattle Creek huts, other 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 track take?
DOC times it at 2 hours one way over 4 km.
How hard is it?
It’s an Advanced tramping track, with a steep climb from the river and a steep drop to Cattle Creek Hut.
Where does the track leave the river?
About 400 m upstream of Stanfield Hut, at an orange post and signage on the true left of the river.
What are the huts like?
Both are DOC Standard huts with 8 bunks, a non-flush toilet and untreated tap water to boil before drinking.
Can I walk it in the other direction?
Yes. The track runs between the two huts, so you can start at either one.
Can I take my dog?
Only with a DOC permit for recreational hunting or management purposes.
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, and don’t follow the river when it’s high.
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.