The 7.5 km Iron Gate Hut Track is located in Ruahine Forest Park in the Manawatu/Whanganui region of New Zealand’s North Island. An undulating and varying track with some challenging steep sections, it rewards walkers with a mix of terrain, taking in beech forest, river-side track and native open areas of bushland. A wild and rugged day hike, it’s possible to stay at the Iron Gate Hut and return the following day. The DOC lodge and hut on route work on a first come first served basis. The facilities are basic and include bunks, non-flush toilets, water that needs treating or boiling and basic cooking facilities. To reach the trailhead, take Petersons Road, off Table Flat Road and head to the farmland car park at the end of the road. For any wilderness walks and overnight stays it’s recommended to tell someone your plans before you go, always carry extra layers for changeable adverse weather and sufficient food. Dogs are only permitted on this track if they hold a DOC permit for recreational hunting or require access for management purposes. Based on our data, the trail is graded as hard. For information on how we grade trails, please click here. Also, check our latest community posts for trail updates. This trail can be completed in approx. 4 - 5 hours. Caution is advised on trail times as this depends on multiple variables. For more info, click here. Photo Credit:Michal Klajban
