Description

Back Ridge Hut is positioned in a useful stopover location to access the central and western areas of the Kaweka Forest Park. It is a standard four-bunk hut. Fess apply. Bookings not required - first come, first served. Facilities include; Enclosed wood burning stove Meat safe Long drop style toilet Stream water supply Please replace firewood used for the next occupants. Respect the rights of others to use the facilities and ensure all rubbish and foodstuffs are removed on departure. Getting there Helicopter The helipad is located 25 metres downstream of the hut on the true left bank of the creek. Flight availability and costs can be obtained from helicopter concessionaires in the central North Island. Walking Makahu Saddle Carpark (3 4 hr) From Makahu Saddle a marked, poled track climbs steeply to cross the top of the main Kaweka Range. It drops down a westerly facing spur to reach Back Ridge Hut after 3 to 4 hours. Most of this track is on bare rocky ground and is exposed to the north west winds and gales that are frequent to the main range area. Rocks Ahead Hut (3 hr) From Rocks Ahead Hut (Ngaruroro River), a marked track steeply ascends along the ridge for 1.5 hours to Back Ridge Bivouac. The track turns left, ascending gradually to Maminga (1472 metres) before veering right to cross Sterns Saddle. Take the left fork and Back Ridge Hut is 400 metres along the track. A route from the rear of Back Ridge Hut accesses an alternative ascending spur direct to Kaweka J. There are no marked tracks leading away to the north or south of the hut as the terrain is steep and difficult to traverse. Before you go, buy 1 Standard Hut Ticket (blue for adults, yellow for youth) for each night's stay. Put this in the honesty box at the hut. Or buy a Backcountry Hut Pass that gives unlimited use at most Standard and Serviced huts for a 6 or 12-month period.