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Key facts
- Distance
- Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
- Walking time
- 3 hr
- Track grade
- Advanced
- Location
- Tararua Forest Park
- Dog access
- Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Checked against official sources on 8 October 2026. Rules and conditions are set by Department of Conservation — confirm with them before you go.
Route overview
A backcountry tramping track that joins Blue Range with Cow Creek Hut and the Waingawa River valley.
This DOC directory entry covers Blue Range to Cow Creek Hut Track in Wellington, within Tararua Forest Park. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.
Distance, time and grade
- Distance: Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
- Walking time: 3 hr
- DOC grade: Advanced
Access and alerts
Source checked 2026-10-08. This page is a dated snapshot, not a live track-status report. Check current DOC route information immediately before travelling. An absence of listed alerts does not establish that a route is open.
Dog access
Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Description
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.
Getting there
This track can be accessed from the Kiriwhakapapa to Blue Range Hut Track, or from Cow Creek Hut.
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
Sources and reuse
Route descriptions and practical information reproduced from the Department of Conservation, Crown copyright, under CC BY 4.0, subject to DOC's copyright policy. Formatting has been adapted, including flattening page sections; follow the original DOC page for maps, section-specific layout, current notices and linked documents. Outdoor Next is independent and is not endorsed by DOC.
The accompanying photograph is a licensed general hiking illustration, not a photograph of this route.
