Huxley valley tracks
Located in Ruataniwha Conservation Park in the Canterbury region
Introduction
The Huxley valley branches off Hopkins valley in Ruataniwha Conservation Park.23 km return via same track
Other activities
- Four wheel driving
Ram Hill carpark to Huxley Forks Hut
Track category: Tramping track
Time: 6 hr
Distance: 18 km
If you have a 4WD you can drive to the conservation park boundary just south of Monument Hut. Otherwise walk 2 - 3 hours from the Ram Hill carpark to Monument Hut.
From Monument Hut it is 3 hours to Huxley Forks Hut. There are tracks in the beech forest and a swing bridge if river levels are high. Otherwise it's quicker to walk in the Huxley River bed to reach the hut on the true left of the valley. Note, there are two huts on the site.
Trampers coming out from Huxley Forks Hut in Huxley valley
Huxley Forks Hut to Brodrick Hut
Track category: Tramping track
Time: 3 hr
Distance: 4.5 km
There have been a few natural slips in the North Huxley valley over the years, which means it takes slightly longer to reach Brodrick Hut. If river levels are low then the fastest travel is in the riverbed itself. From Brodrick Hut trampers may elect to climb over Brodrick Pass (1630 m) into the Landsborough valley.
Huxley Forks Hut to South Huxley Biv
Track category: Tramping track
Time: 3 hr
Distance: 5 km
Follow the marked route to South Huxley Biv, which is a very small hut.
Huxley valley branches off Hopkins valley which is at the end of Lake Ohau Road, 60 km from Twizel. Follow SH 6 from Twizel, then turn into Lake Ohau Road.
The sealed road changes to gravel after passing Lake Ohau Lodge. Drive carefully and watch out for stock grazing beside the road. As a courtesy, drive slowly past Lake Ohau Station buildings to reduce dust.
Park your car at the Ram Hill carpark at the road end, or if you have a 4WD vehicle carry on to Monument Hut.
Map: NZTopo50 BY14 Mt Ward
Dog access
You can take your dog on a lead into the Huxley valley. However this is not an option if you're walking as you first need to cross private farmland to reach the conservation park boundary. If you're taking a 4WD from Ram Hill carpark across the farmland, keep the dog confined to your vehicle until the conservation park boundary.
There is an ongoing trapping and poison operation for possums in this area. Monitor your dog and use a muzzle to avoid any potential scavenging of possum carcasses.
Your safety is your responsibility
- Take the right gear to keep yourself safe on your tramp.
- Tell someone your plans using the Outdoors Intentions form including when to raise the alarm if you haven't returned.
- Follow the five essential steps of the Safety Code.
Contacts
| Te Manahuna / Twizel Office | |
| Phone: | +64 3 435 0802 |
| Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
| Email: | esienquiries@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
15 Wairepo Road Twizel 7901 |
| Postal Address: |
Private Bag Twizel 7944 |
| Full office details | |