Middle Ridge Track
Walking track
Time:
1 hr return
Getting there
Take the Coast Road to Catchpool Valley, 12 km south of Wainuiomata in the Hutt Valley. The track begins on the left 1 minute along the Catchpool Loop Track from the carpark.
About the area
Catchpool Valley is the most popular entrance to Rimutaka Forest Park. It includes Orongorongo Valley and its booked huts.
In the Rimutaka Forest Park you can enjoy some of Wellington's finest mountain biking, not to mention the native birdlife and walking tracks.
Description
A greenhood orchid on the
Middle Ridge Track
This track joins up with the Clay Ridge and Five Mile Loop Tracks, and has steep sections that can be slippery when wet. Middle Ridge Track follows the ridge between Graces Stream and Catchpool Stream. Here, the vegetation consists of more drought-tolerant plants (such as manuka) because of the drier aspect and shallower soils. The track gives good views of the Catchpool Valley.
Plan and prepare
What to expect on a walking track:
- Easy to moderate walking from a few minutes to a day
- Track is mostly well formed, some sections may be steep, rough or muddy
- Suitable for people with low to moderate fitness and abilities
- Clearly sign posted. Stream and river crossings are bridged
- Walking shoes or light tramping/hiking boots required