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Location & access
DOC track reference point, not a verified trailhead, entrance or the whole route. Check the official route directions before travel.
Official location informationLocation source
DOC track reference point, not a verified trailhead, entrance or the whole route.
Reference point: -40.89153, 175.44052. WGS84 coordinates retained at the official service's returned precision; decimal resolution is not survey accuracy. Source positional accuracy is not specified.
DOC Maps walking and tramping reference point (WGS84), exact official-page GUID / Department of Conservation. Checked 2026-10-12.
Key facts
- Distance
- Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
- Walking time
- 2 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
This track connects Atiwhakatu Valley with Mountain House Shelter. It is more challenging than the Gentle Annie Track.
This DOC directory entry covers River Ridge 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: 2 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.
- Predator control for part of Tararua Forest Park; First published on 2 May 2026. Last reviewed on 3 June 2026.
Dog access
Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Description
This track connects Atiwhakatu Valley with Mountain House Shelter on the Gentle Annie Track.
River Ridge Track begins on Atiwhakatu Track, signposted towards Mountain House. The track climbs steadily up the ridge then meets the Gentle Annie Track near Pig Flat and Mountain House Shelter.
River Ridge Track is a tramping track and is maintained to a lower standard than Atiwhakatu Track, the Gentle Annie Track and the Holdsworth road end to Powell Hut/Mount Holdsworth track.
You can expect an unformed, rough track, where you have to clamber up and over tree roots and fallen trees. It can be very muddy. Follow the orange markers to stay on the track.
It is best suited to experienced trampers.
Getting there
This track links Atiwhakatu Track and the Gentle Annie Track.
Know before you go
The track is steep, rough and can be muddy
We recommend sturdy footwear with good grip. Walking poles may be helpful.
The track needs good fitness and balance. Plan extra time in case it takes longer than you expect.
The Gentle Annie Track is an easier alternative.
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 and a distress beacon.
Day hikes packing list
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.
