A tramp through peaceful beech forest to a backcountry hut that is a good family destination, or an alternative to Angelus Hut when the weather has turned for the worse.

By Thomas Chin

Starting at 900m, the track descends gradually through mature beech forest and undulates as it follows the curvature of Robert Ridge. There are no significant steep climbs, but there are occasional slippery roots to navigate and the track is narrow in places requiring a careful eye on your footing.

Shallow streams that flow from the slopes above must be crossed but none are difficult.

After 1.6km the track reaches Speargrass Creek at 800m and follows its course on the valley floor for a further 1.3km. Now heading upstream, the trail gradually gains height as it tracks towards the head of the creek. The way is muddy in sections and obvious side trails avoid the deepest portions. A few rocky riverbanks offer rest stops. 

Over this section, three scree areas from previous rockslides must be traversed and there is access to an alternative flood route for use when the creek is swollen.

Directly after the third marked stream crossing shown on the map and at the halfway mark of the trip, a lengthy ascent begins. This leads through further beech forest and includes the crossing of at least four more side streams before a junction with Speargrass Creek Route is reached. Here, a bridge spans Speargrass Creek and a signposted turn-off indicates the hut, 200m away. 

Speargrass Hut sits in a clearing and is approached along a boardwalk over boggy ground. It receives late afternoon sun as well as a view of spectacular sunrises in the valley below. The hut has an inviting fireplace, and although DOC warns that no firewood is present, there are many large logs that can be cut up. There’s a water tank with an outdoor sink, but in winter it’s advisable to fill the billy before lights out as the tank can freeze overnight.