Mole Stream Track to Mole Hut

Mole Track via Mole Stream is an out-and-back to Mole Hut, a four-bunk hut at 1,160 m near the bush edge. The mapped line is about 6.8 km each way; retrace it for a 13.5 km return (8.4 miles). Allow roughly 6–8 hours for the walk and time at the hut. The stream approach is rougher and more open than the forested Jameson Ridge alternative. A longer 15.4 km itinerary uses both approaches as a circuit; that distance does not describe this out-and-back.

Use the signed car park beside Mole Stream near Mataki Lodge on Tutaki Road South. From the road end, orange markers lead across farmland toward the forest and stream. The markers can be easy to miss at the paddock edge, so confirm the route before leaving the clear farm track. This is the Mole Stream approach; Jameson Ridge is a separate route to the same hut.

The track follows close to Mole Stream. Its standout section is a broad boulder channel, with fallen timber and steep scoured sides while a smaller stream threads between the rocks. Expect slow, uneven footing and a couple of reported slips, including a muddy one. The more open river corridor is the reason to choose this route; Jameson Ridge offers a shadier climb through beech forest.

Mole Hut is a standard four-bunk hut at 1,160 m. It is first come, with no booking required. If you stay overnight, hut tickets or an eligible Backcountry Hut Pass are required. Mole Tops is a separate continuation beyond the hut; it is not part of the route or distance here.

This is a backcountry track with a less obvious farm-to-forest transition and rough stream-side ground. DOC warns that heavy rain can flood rivers in this area. Dogs are not allowed on the route.