Speargrass Track to Speargrass Hut

Speargrass Track is a 14.6 km (9.1 mi) out-and-back from Mount Robert car park to Speargrass Hut. The one-way walk is 7.3 km and about three hours, so allow around six hours for the return trip. It is an intermediate tramping track: the first part drops gradually through beech forest, then the path follows the valley and climbs back to the hut. I would choose it for a full day in the bush and the hut setting, not for a quick stroll.

From the car park, the track winds through beech forest and in and out of small gullies. It loses height gradually for the first couple of kilometres before reaching Speargrass Creek, also called Te Horowai. The valley-floor stretch is gentler; the walk back to the car park turns that early descent into a steady climb. A short flood-route bypass is mapped nearby; follow DOC markers if you are directed off the main track. Check current track information before setting out.

The track climbs through more beech forest to Speargrass Hut, a 12-bunk serviced hut at about 1,060 m. A boardwalk crosses boggy tussock into the clearing, with Robert Ridge and Speargrass Valley beyond. The hut has mattresses, a wood burner, a long-drop toilet and untreated water that must be boiled. There is no food service, so bring what you need for the walk or an overnight stay. If you stop for a photo, frame the hut with the boardwalk and ridge rather than taking only the building close-up.

This route ends at Speargrass Hut. The Speargrass Creek Route branches just before it and continues toward Angelus Hut over unbridged creek crossings; that is a separate, longer alpine route with a different level of commitment. You do not need to take it to reach Speargrass Hut. Book ahead if you plan to stay overnight, and remember that dogs are not allowed on this track.