Each week, we highlight our fave tramping trails in New Zealand for day and multi day hikes across Nelson Tasman (and beyond!)
Captain Creek Hut, Pelorus
If you love lush forest, sparkling blue rivers and the idea of a cosy hut tucked away in the bush, add this one to your adventure list! Follow the river along a well-maintained, gentle trail. Expect gorgeous clear blue sparkling water, moss, ferns and mushrooms dotted throughout the lush forest. Make a short detour to Emerald Pool 3.5km in for a stunning swim hole in incredible blue water. Trust me, it’s worth it!
• Distance: 11 km each way to Captain Creeks Hut (22 km return)
• Elevation gain: approximately 400 m
• Dogs: Dog-friendly with a permit
• Hut: Captain Creek Hut has 6 bunks and firewood
GETTING THERE
Drive to Pelorous Bridge and then drive along the gravel 2WD friendly Maungaputū Road to save a few kms walking along here.
Captain Creek is also a great starting point for exploring further. It’s another 2hours to Middy Creek hut where from here, you have so many options to pick your own adventure from heading up to Rocks hut or continue along the Pelorus or up to Conical Hill.
If you’re carrying on to Middy Creek or Rocks Hut, you’ll get to cross some impressive swing bridges along the way. Just don’t forgot the insect repellent!
