The Keith George Memorial Park track is a bush loop walk in Silverstream, Upper Hutt, sitting alongside the Silverstream Scenic Reserve. The terrain is steep and muddy in places, and the route is not heavily signposted — it relies on pink arrow markers through the bush. It’s a challenging short walk that is unlikely to be busy, in genuine native forest well outside the city.
Practical Information
| Location | Silverstream, Upper Hutt |
| Distance | ~3km loop |
| Walk time | 1.5–2 hours |
| Difficulty | Challenging (steep, muddy sections) |
| Elevation gain | ~270m |
| Access | Car park off State Highway 2, shortly after the Silverstream junction entering Upper Hutt |
| Cost | Free |
| Dogs | On lead |
| Signage | Pink arrow markers — watch carefully |
About the Track
Keith George Memorial Park and the adjacent Silverstream Scenic Reserve form a connected area of bush and forest in the Silverstream valley on the northern edge of Upper Hutt. The loop walk climbs steeply through native bush, with the pink arrow markers being the main navigation aid through the route. The trail can be muddy after rain, and some sections require care on the descent.
It is the kind of walk where you’re unlikely to encounter many other people — a quieter option compared to Wellington city’s more popular tracks. Native forest covers the slopes throughout the walk, and the area is known for native birdlife.
Getting There
Access is from State Highway 2 — the car park turnoff requires quick reactions as you approach Upper Hutt from the south, pulling off to the left shortly after the Silverstream junction. There is no public transport directly to the car park.
What Visitors Say
“Steep, muddy and not well-posted in places, but absolutely worthwhile if you’re committed. Real native bush, very quiet.” — AllTrails
“A genuine bush walk that feels remote despite being close to Upper Hutt. Follow the pink markers carefully.” — AllTrails
Where to Learn More
Upper Hutt City Council — Keith George Memorial Park has the official park and reserve information.
AllTrails — Keith George Memorial Park Loop has a track map, visitor reviews and current conditions.
Walking with Kids NZ — Keith George Memorial Park Loop has a family-friendly write-up with photos of the track.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Keith George Memorial Park?
In Silverstream, Upper Hutt — accessed from a car park off State Highway 2, shortly after the Silverstream junction when approaching from Wellington.
How long is the walk?
About 3km loop, taking 1.5–2 hours depending on pace and conditions.
Is it suitable for beginners?
No — the track is steep, can be muddy, and is not well-signposted. It is better suited to walkers with some experience who are comfortable navigating using trail markers.
What markers should I follow?
Pink arrow markers — keep an eye out for these throughout the track, as signage is sparse in places.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, on lead.
Is there public transport?
No direct public transport to the car park. A vehicle is needed to access the trailhead.
What is the Silverstream Scenic Reserve?
Adjacent land to Keith George Memorial Park, forming a combined bush and forest area managed for public use.
Is it likely to be busy?
No — this is a quiet track and you are unlikely to encounter many other walkers.
The Wellington Walking Tracks hub lists all walking routes across the Wellington region. The Trelissick Park Tracks in the Ngaio Gorge offer another bush stream-side walk, closer to central Wellington. The Northern Walkway is a longer cross-city route passing through native bush between Johnsonville and the Wellington waterfront.
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