Overnight Hike - Jolliebrook Circuit & Cold Stream Hut

Jolliebrook Circuit

An Overnight on the Jolliebrook Circuit with a Side Trip to Cold Stream Hut

The Lake Sumner area has long been a favourite of trampers who enjoy rustic huts, wild valleys, and classic Canterbury scenery. On this trip I set out to complete the Jolliebrook Circuit, with the intention for an extra detour to bag Cold Stream Hut—a tucked-away little gem up a side valley. Unfortunately it didn't work out that way, so I went back for a second trip just to bag Cold Stream Hut.

Starting Out – Sister’s Swingbridge

The hike begins from the Sisters Swingbridge car park, a small but busy spot on Lake Sumner Road that fills quickly on weekends and during school holidays. From here, the track leads across a bridge and through open farm land before dropping down to the swingbridge itself. Once across, the valley opens up as the trail heads upstream toward Lake Sumner.

Gabriel’s Hut

The first hut you’ll encounter is Gabriel’s Hut, a small historic hut with a dirt floor and plenty of character. It makes a great spot for a break, and if you’ve got time, a 10-minute side track leads directly to the shore of Lake Sumner. From here the track also continues around the lake and eventually links with the route to Hope Kiwi Hut and Te Araroa Trail.

Over Gabriel’s Saddle to Jolliebrook Hut

From Gabriel’s Hut the track climbs gently over Gabriel’s Saddle before dropping down to meet the Jolliebrook Stream. The descent leads to a wide grassy clearing where Jolliebrook Hut sits, surrounded by space for camping. The hut itself is quaint, with two bunk rooms, a central shared area, water from the stream, and the usual long drop toilet.

Following the Jolliebrook Stream

Beyond the hut the track keeps close to the stream, requiring multiple crossings. These can be slippery depending on conditions, but they add to the backcountry feel of the circuit. Eventually the track meets the confluence of the Jolliebrook and Hurunui Rivers. From here you cross the Jolliebrook once more before heading up the Hurunui Valley.

The final section passes through farmland where you may encounter grazing cattle, and the trail climbs steadily before circling back to the Sisters Swingbridge and the car park.

Side Trip: Cold Stream Hut

The access point is from the Hurunui Swingbridge, with a small, unmarked parking area along Lake Sumner Road. From here the track climbs to meet the Jolliebrook Circuit near the confluence with the Hurunui and Jolliebrook Rivers.

Soon after, a signposted junction points the way to Cold Stream. The route immediately crosses the Jolliebrook and then heads into the Cold Stream valley. The track is poorly marked, with only occasional markers and a faint ground trail. Expect to cross the stream many times as you work your way higher.

Eventually, the upper valley opens into a grassy clearing where Cold Stream Hut is tucked away just above the stream. It’s a classic four-bunker with water from the creek and a long drop. While there’s plenty of camping space, flat tent spots are limited. The remote feel and quiet valley make it a perfect overnight stop.

Cold Stream Hut

Final Thoughts

Between the history of Gabriel’s Hut, the larger clearing at Jolliebrook Hut, and the tucked-away charm of Cold Stream Hut, this overnight tramp offers a mix of experiences in just one trip. The Jolliebrook Circuit itself makes for an excellent introduction to multi-day hiking in Canterbury, while the Cold Stream side trip adds that sense of adventure and remoteness that keeps you coming back.

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