After you’ve completed the 2200 Sealy Tarns stairway to heaven, get ready for a climb you’re sure never to forget.
The stairs turn into a rocky path, some parts of which you will definitely be needing help from your hands. At first the rocks will be small but eventually you’ll be scaling massive rocks as you get closer to the top. In winter months, these rocks will likely be covered in snow so remember to take your time and reapply your sunscreen! Even if you’re looking at your feet, the sun’s rays will be bouncing off the white of the snow.
Once you get to the top of the climb, you will have another viewpoint. Make sure to take in the view of the valley again before continuing on to the (mostly) flat part of the track. You’ll then find yourself staring at the snowy mountains hidden from the Mount Cook Village behind. In the summer, you’ll see dozens of waterfalls cascading down these mountains.
Once you make it to Mueller Hut, you have the option of staying the night, but remember to book in advance. If you do, you can enjoy the sunset and witness the night sky come alive with the Milky Way.
Quick Facts about this walk
- Location: Mt Cook, South Island, New Zealand
- Time needed: 8 hour walk
- Distance: 10.4 km
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Bikes allowed: No
- Route: Return
- Elevation: 1000m
- Wet Feet: Yes, after snow or heavy rain.
- Toilets: There are toilets in the village or at the campground.
- Dogs: No, dogs are not allowed in the Mount Cook National Park.
- Mobile Coverage: Yes, though spotty after Sealy Tarns.
- Last Updated: April, 2020
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