Three Mile Stream Track and Route: Walking Guide, Time & Access

Route overview

The track runs from Hurunui swing bridge to Hope Kiwi Lodge. The route cuts down to join Hope Kiwi Track.

This DOC directory entry covers Three Mile Stream Track and Route in Canterbury, within Lake Sumner 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: Not specified in the checked DOC directory
• DOC grade: Advanced; Expert

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

No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.

Description

Hurunui swing bridge to Three Mile Stream Hut

Time: 4 hr 30 min

From the swingbridge travel up McMillan Stream on gravel flats and forest terraces, criss-crossing the streambed as needed. The track then leaves the stream to climb to a low saddle and then descends to the top flats of Three Mile Stream. Three Mile Stream Hut is further down the flats.

Three Mile Stream Hut to Hope Kiwi Lodge

Time: 3 hr

The start of the track is well signposted down the flats. It climbs steadily to a low bush saddle and passes swampy clearings to reach Parakeet Stream. The track makes a gradual descent to Hope Kiwi Lodge.

Three Mile Stream Hut to junction with Hope Kiwi Track

Time: 3 hr 30 minDistance: 4.9 km

This section is a route that cuts down to Hope Kiwi Track.

From Three Mile Stream Hut follow the poled route downstream. Then pick up the track through bush (marked with orange triangles) where it climbs above the gorge and then descends to join the Hope Kiwi Track.

Getting there

Lake Sumner Forest Park lies 100 km northwest of Christchurch between Lewis Pass and Arthur’s Pass National Park.

To reach the park via Lake Sumner Road: take SH7 at Waikari to Hawarden, then follow Lake Sumner Road to Lake Taylor. The road beyond Lake Taylor is suitable for 4WD vehicles only to Loch Katrine (camping area).

The 4WD track from Loch Katrine to the Hurunui swing bridge at the boundary of Lake Sumner Forest Park crosses Lakes Station land. There is a locked gate on road by Loch Katrine. There is no restriction for foot or mountain-bike access through this gate, but vehicle access must be gained from Lakes Station. DOC is unable to provide contact details.

It is around 9 km (2–3 hours walk) from Loch Katrine to the Hurunui swing bridge.

Know before you go

Safety is your responsibility:

• Have the correct and the most up-to-date information

• Take a topographic map if going into more challenging country, i.e. something more than a tramping track.

• Always be prepared for sudden weather changes. Check the latest forecast, especially if any river crossings are required.

• Equip yourself well and prepare for the worst. Take enough food and water and the right clothing.

• Ensure someone else knows where you are going and when you plan to return.

• If staying in huts, fill in the intentions book. This may save your life.

• Dial 111 immediately for any fire emergency.

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.