Sledge Track
Explore diverse trails from easy family walks to challenging hikes, featuring refreshing water holes and stunning bushland views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful hikes
Sledge Track
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful hikes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore diverse trails from easy family walks to challenging hikes, featuring refreshing water holes and stunning bushland views.
"Great walk with different tracks for everyone and well signed!"
🚗 Gravel Road Caution
The 3km unsealed road to parking can be tricky. Drive slowly and be ready to reverse for oncoming traffic.
🎒 Pack Your Own Snacks
No cafes available at the parking. Bring plenty of food and water for your hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sledge Track Water Holes
Along the Sledge Track
Refreshing natural pools perfect for a dip after a hike, offering a serene escape with beautiful bush surroundings.
Swing Bridge Crossing
Connecting Sledge Track to Kahuterawa Car Park
A scenic bridge offering a unique perspective and a pleasant route back, suitable for a less intense walk.
Pukenae Nae Lookout Views
Otangane Loop
Rewarding panoramic vistas after a challenging trek, ideal for those who embrace bush bashing and stunning scenery.
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Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Off-Road Drive
Choose Your Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Public reserve in/near Palmy with a safe stream for kids to splash in?
🚗 Gravel Road Caution
The 3km unsealed road to parking can be tricky. Drive slowly and be ready to reverse for oncoming traffic.
🎒 Pack Your Own Snacks
No cafes available at the parking. Bring plenty of food and water for your hike.
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Fun things to do in Palmerston North. Go!
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Trails can be slippery and muddy, especially after rain. Good grip shoes are a must.
🌿 Gators for Bush Bashing
If tackling tougher loops like Otangane, gators are highly recommended for protection against hook grass and bush lawyer.
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Tips
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🚗 Gravel Road Caution
The 3km unsealed road to parking can be tricky. Drive slowly and be ready to reverse for oncoming traffic.
🎒 Pack Your Own Snacks
No cafes available at the parking. Bring plenty of food and water for your hike.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Trails can be slippery and muddy, especially after rain. Good grip shoes are a must.
🌿 Gators for Bush Bashing
If tackling tougher loops like Otangane, gators are highly recommended for protection against hook grass and bush lawyer.
🏊♀️ Swim Gear Ready
Don't forget swimwear if you plan to enjoy the refreshing water holes along the track.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Sledge Track for its diverse walking options, from easy family strolls to challenging hikes, and its beautiful natural features like water holes and scenic views. The well-maintained main track is a highlight, though some find the more adventurous loops demanding. The unsealed access road and lack of on-site amenities are noted drawbacks.
"It’s a nice place. Access to water and you can put your feet in the water and enjoy the beautiful view.
Just remember on the way there is a 3 km drive which is off road until you reach the parking. In some places two cars can’t cross each other so you have to wait or reverse. Plenty parking.
There are no cafes in the parking area. I didn’t see any. Bring your own food etc.
different options for walking
Long and short, easy, moderate and hard."
Fatima A. Junaid
"Loved it. Nice easy walk up the Sledge track suitable for families & young kids, there’s also a swimming hole if you’d like to go for a swim. Can go via the Swing Bridge back to the main Kahuterawa car park if you’d like. The hike past the swing bridge is a little challenging but not too bad. Path is well maintained."
Nur H
"Sledge track - Awesome walk. Highly recommend.
Otangane loop - Bloody tough going. Track is well marked and you can make a track out but left at the loop junction up to Pukenaenae lookout is pretty much all bush bashing. From the lookout back to the junction on the other side is better but still some bush bashing required. Lots of hook grass and bush lawyer so highly recommend gators. Even then be prepared to be attacked by the bush lawyer. Quite a bit of mud but no where near as much as what I was expecting after the rain we had with the cyclone. Although this tramp really pushed my limits (put my pack weight up to 12kg) it was so totally worth it for that view. If mud, bush bashing, fighting hook grass and bush lawyer isn't your thing I wouldn't recommend this track. But like I said, the right hand side of the loop isn't quite so bad so maybe an option for you."
Damon Facoory
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sledge Track is accessed via a gravel road, approximately 3km long, leading to the parking area. Be aware that this road can be narrow and unsealed, requiring careful driving.
While many cars can manage, the unsealed road has sections where two cars may struggle to pass. It's advisable to drive cautiously and be prepared to reverse if necessary.
There is ample parking available at the Sledge Track trailhead.
GPS navigation should guide you to the general area, but be mindful of the unsealed road conditions as you approach the parking.
Public transport options are limited for reaching Sledge Track due to its off-road access. Driving is the most common method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to Sledge Track and its various walking trails is generally free of charge.
Sledge Track is an outdoor natural area and is typically accessible from dawn till dusk. There are no set opening or closing times.
No advance booking or tickets are required to visit Sledge Track. It's a public access area.
Generally, there are no specific entry restrictions, but always be mindful of park rules and safety guidelines.
Yes, Sledge Track is open during holidays, but expect higher visitor numbers on public holidays and weekends.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Sledge Track offers a variety of trails, including easy walks suitable for families, moderate routes, and challenging loops like Otangane and Toe Toe.
Yes, there are lovely water holes along the Sledge Track that are great for swimming and cooling off.
The main Sledge Track is an easy walk suitable for families and young children. Some other loops can be more challenging.
The terrain varies from well-maintained paths on the main track to potentially slippery, muddy, and overgrown sections on more challenging loops.
Information regarding dog policies can vary. It's best to check local park regulations or signage upon arrival.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no cafes or dining facilities available at the Sledge Track parking area or along the trails.
It's recommended to pack all your food and drinks, including snacks and a picnic lunch, to enjoy during your visit.
While not explicitly mentioned as designated picnic areas, the natural surroundings offer spots to enjoy a packed meal.
Information on BBQs is not readily available. It's best to assume they are not permitted unless clearly signposted.
The nearest dining options would likely be in nearby towns, so plan to eat before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene water holes, the scenic swing bridge, and the panoramic views from lookouts like Pukenae Nae. The lush bush also offers great natural shots.
Absolutely, especially from elevated points offering expansive views of the surrounding natural landscape.
Mornings and late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the water holes.
A smartphone camera is sufficient for most visitors, but a DSLR or mirrorless camera will allow for more creative control, especially in varied lighting.
Drone usage is often restricted in natural reserves and parks. It's crucial to check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider taking the Swing Bridge route back for a slightly different, scenic experience. While more challenging loops exist, sticking to the primary Sledge Track ensures a fun and safe outing for the whole family.
💪 Adventurous Hikers
It's highly recommended to wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip and consider bringing gators to protect against dense undergrowth like hook grass and bush lawyer.
💍 Proposal Spot Seekers
Consider the time of day for optimal lighting and ambiance. A proposal followed by a refreshing dip in the water holes or a celebratory picnic would make for a truly special occasion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
When tackling the more demanding tracks, be prepared for slippery sections, mud, and dense vegetation. The use of gators is highly recommended to protect against hook grass and bush lawyer, which can be quite aggressive. The swing bridge offers a scenic alternative route back to the Kahuterawa car park, providing a less intense experience after exploring further afield.
Hikers should always check weather conditions before heading out, as trails can become more hazardous after rain. Proper footwear with good grip is essential for all tracks, regardless of difficulty.
The Off-Road Approach
While most standard vehicles can navigate this road, it's worth noting that it's an unpaved surface. The parking area at the trailhead is generally spacious, accommodating a good number of vehicles.
Crucially, there are no amenities like cafes or shops at the parking area. This means visitors must bring all their own food, water, and any other necessities for their outing. Planning ahead and packing accordingly is key to a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
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