Last updated October 2026
The Snowdens Bush Walk is a short network of paths through Snowdens Bush Scenic Reserve, a popular picnic and recreation spot on Waimea West Road just west of Brightwater.
The reserve is about 19 km from Nelson, and the Department of Conservation (DOC) grades the walk as an easy to intermediate walking track, around 800 m in total. It is a gentle option for families, picnickers and anyone wanting a quick stretch of native forest without heading into the hills.
Several paths wind through the trees, so you can wander at your own pace. Dogs are allowed, as long as they are kept under control at all times.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Snowdens Bush Walk on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOCTrack facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.
Practical Information
- Start
- Snowdens Bush Scenic Reserve, Waimea West Road, just west of Brightwater
- Distance from the city
- About 19 km from Nelson
- Track length
- About 800 m
- Grade
- Easy to intermediate walking track
- Dogs
- Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times.
- Track type
- Walking track
- Camping
- Not permitted
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
About Snowdens Bush Walk
Snowdens Bush is a small window into what the Waimea Plains once looked like. DOC describes the reserve as an example of a forest type that once covered much of the plains, and while it has been heavily modified over the years, it still holds a canopy dominated by tōtara, tītoki and mataī.
Grazing stopped in the reserve in 1972, and since then a varied understorey has grown back beneath the big trees. That regrowth gives the walk a layered feel, with younger shrubs and saplings filling the space between the older trunks.
DOC says several paths lead through the forest, so it is easy to tailor the outing: a short wander before a picnic, or a slower look through each of the paths if you have children who like to explore.
The walk suits families, older walkers and anyone after a short nature break between Nelson, Richmond and the Waimea Plains. It is also a handy stop if you are already out exploring the Brightwater area.
Getting There
DOC places the reserve on Waimea West Road, just west of Brightwater.
Know Before You Go
Camping is prohibited in Snowdens Bush, and no fires are allowed. Keep dogs under control throughout the reserve. As with any DOC site, check the DOC page for alerts before you go and tell someone your plans.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Snowdens Bush Walk: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Department of Conservation: Nelson area: other DOC walks and reserves around Nelson and the Waimea Plains.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Snowdens Bush Walk?
DOC gives the track length as about 800 m. Several paths run through the reserve, so you can make the walk as short or as long as you like.
How hard is the walk?
DOC grades it as an easy to intermediate walking track.
Can I take my dog?
Yes. DOC’s rule is “Dogs allowed. Keep dog under control at all times.”
Where does the walk start?
In Snowdens Bush Scenic Reserve on Waimea West Road, just west of Brightwater.
How far is it from Nelson?
The reserve is about 19 km from Nelson.
Can I camp or light a fire there?
No. Camping is prohibited in Snowdens Bush and no fires are allowed.
What trees will I see?
The forest is dominated by tōtara, tītoki and mataī, with a varied understorey that has developed since grazing stopped in 1972.
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