Getting there
The signed Young Valley access is north of Makarora. The route follows the Young River to its junction with the Makarora, then continues into the valley. After the swing bridge between the North and South Young branches, the hut track runs 550 m downstream, climbs steeply for about 100 m and traverses unstable slips before a steadier climb to the hut.
The first Makarora River crossing can be unsafe in high water or after heavy rain; this route needs river-crossing experience. If conditions are wrong, wait or use the Young River Link Track or a commercial jetboat crossing. Bookings are required through the main summer season, with no beds set aside for walk-ins; outside the booking season, a hut ticket is still needed. Check the current dates and access advice before setting out.
