Once upon a time, a fallen tree resembled a cannon. That’s how Cannon Point got its unique name. We are now at Cannon Point Walkway. It is more than just a trail. It’s a journey through history and nature’s artistry.
Cannon Point Walkway is located in the Akatarawa Forest. This is on the western side of the Hutt Valley. The walkway forms a loop of 7.7 kilometres. It ascends to the Cannon Point trig. The trig stands at 341 metres. The total elevation gain is 304 metres.
The walkway is maintained by the Greater Wellington Regional Council. It ensures the path remains accessible. The name Cannon Point comes from a local tale. A large tree fell. From below, it looked like a cannon.
Valley View Station once owned this area. The farm owners cut the steep zig-zag track. This provided access on foot and horseback. The track showcases human effort.
Bridge Road and Tulsa Reserve mark the road ends. The route from Bridge Road traces a former water supply pipeline. It runs upstream along Clarke’s Creek. This leads to the historic Birchville Dam. A steep climb follows. It leads to the ridgeline. It then goes to the Cannon Point trig.
Panoramic views of the Hutt Valley await you at the trig. The loop completes with a walk along the Hutt River banks. This connects the two road ends.
In 1932, a “mystery” railway excursion brought 800 people to Upper Hutt. Many hiked from the Akatarawa picnic grounds. They hiked to the Cannon Point lookout. The hike was about 16 km.
In December 2017, a portion of the track closed. It was a 1.7-kilometre zig-zag from Tulsa Park. This crossed private land. The closure followed a dispute. The dispute was between the landowner and the Upper Hutt City Council. Access was restored in August 2018.
October 2022 saw a new bridge opening. It was at the Birchville end of the track. The average uphill gradient is about 14.9%. The average downhill gradient is about -12.6%.
The Cannon Point Residential Development is nearby. It is a large residential area. It offers views across the Hutt Valley. The development blends modern living and natural beauty.
The Cannon Point Trig offers views of Upper Hutt. The walkway is popular with walkers and runners. Mountain bikers also use it. The track provides enough space to pass.
Remember the story of the fallen tree. Think of the hikers from 1932. Cannon Point is a blend of nature, history, and community. Take in the views. Reflect on the stories embedded in this landscape. Cannon Point offers more than just a walk. It offers an experience.