The Hutt River Trail is a flat, paved path that runs the length of the Hutt Valley, connecting Upper Hutt to the Wellington Harbour foreshore — about 40 km in total. The section through Upper Hutt is a gentle ride or walk along the gravel banks of the river, passing through parks and reserves with views up to the bush-covered ranges on either side.
The trail is heavily used by locals for weekday exercise and family weekend outings. On summer days the river banks fill with people picnicking; in the upper reaches near Kaitoke the water is clear enough to swim in. Bikes can be hired in Lower Hutt; the trail is almost entirely flat until you leave the valley, making it accessible for all fitness levels.