Red Beech Track
Alerts
Check the DOC website for current alerts and conditions before you go. This site gets current alert info from DOC, but is not an official source of information.
Combine this track with the Mt Grey/Maukatere Track to form a circuit of Mt Grey/Maukatere. The track is steep and easiest to descent than climb.
Elevation
Cover mapped summer 2023/24.
Description
From the summit of Mt Grey it's possible to descend via Red Beech Track to the Grey River picnic area. This track is steep in places, over patches of scree, and is easier to descend than climb.
About half way down you'll need to ford the Grey River. Check the river levels at the picnic site before starting your trip – if the water is flowing over the ford, it will be too dangerous to cross the river on Red Beech Track.
Combine this track with the Mt Grey/Maukatere Track to form a circuit of Mt Grey/Maukatere and enjoy the views from the summit.
Getting there
From Amberley, follow Douglas Road, then Cramptons Bush Road until the road reaches the Lake Janet picnic area (17 km from Amberley). Turn left into Mount Grey Road, then right into Okuku Road to reach the Grey River picnic area (3.5 km from the the Lake Janet picnic area).
Note:
- The ford across the Grey River is no longer accessible. Park at the gate before the river and cross the river on foot. This should only be attempted in low flows.
- Be aware of heavy vehicles and logging trucks on the roads.
Know before you go
NZTopo50 map sheet: BW23, BV23
The ford across the Grey River to the Grey River picnic area is no longer accessible. Park at the gate before the river and cross the river on foot. This should only be attempted in low flows.
No mountain bikes allowed.
Wasp populations reach high numbers from January to March – wear light coloured clothing and carry antihistamine cream/tablets as a precaution.
Possum trapping is taking place here
Possum trapping using leg-hold traps is taking place in this area. Ensure your dog is on a leash and under control on this track to keep them safe.
Possum trapping is allowed by permit only. Leg-hold possum traps must be a minimum of 50 m from the track.
Weather
Forecast at the start of the track