11 October 2026
Showers, becoming few and far between in the afternoon, then clearing to fine in the evening.
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1 / 32Nelson Lakes National Park
Speargrass Track
An excellent tramp through beautiful beech forest to Speargrass Hut, the ideal spot for an overnight trip, or as a stop on your way to or from Angelus Hut. The Speargrass Track is graded intermediate but is rough in places with many tree roots, and many people find it more challenging than expected.
Distance
14 km
Walking time
3 hr one way
Difficulty
Intermediate
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Outdoor alert
Outdoor alert
No firewood at Angelus Hut
No firewood at Angelus Hut
Weather outlook
Nelson Lakes National Park forecast
Issued 11 Oct 2026, 7:33 am
12 October 2026
Fine, but becoming overcast in the evening.
13 October 2026
Showers developing in the morning.
14 October 2026
Showers turning to heavy rain. Snow lowering to 1700 metres.
15 October 2026
Showers.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Speargrass Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Speargrass Track
Starting from the Mt Robert carpark, the first hour or so descends to the valley floor and Speargrass Creek. The track then follows the creek, sometimes alongside it and other times climbing 50 to 100 meters above. The final hour is a steady uphill walk to Speargrass Hut. The trail passes through forest, so expect plenty of tree roots that can serve as steps on steeper sections. The track is rocky in places, with several unbridged stream crossings. 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. Orange track markers are present, though not always easy to spot. Overall, this is an enjoyable walk, with Speargrass Hut set in a stunning location. However, note that the track is closer to intermediate than easy, with cold temperatures likely in winter and possible snow on the trail.
Essential information for Speargrass Track
The gate at the bottom of Mount Robert Road is locked when the road is icy. Be prepared with warm and waterproof clothing. Nelson Lakes National Park is in an alpine area – freezing conditions can occur at any time of year. No rubbish facilities are provided – carry out all your rubbish. Biting sandflies can detract for your experience at the lakes, especially during the summer months – cover up and apply a good quality insect repellant to exposed skin. Wasps are a known hazard and are particularly common from December until April – carry antihistamine if you are allergic to their stings.
Huts and campsites
Speargrass Hut
Getting there for Speargrass Track
The track starts from the car park at the end of Mt Robert Road, off SH 63 west of St Arnaud. Isolated carparks are prone to theft. Don't leave any valuables in your vehicle. A bag storage facility is available at the Rotoiti/Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre. Use this location on Google Maps to help find your way there.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel
Dog access for Speargrass Track
No dogs.
Before you walk Speargrass Track
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.