Climb to Mueller Hut

This trek begins in the gateway town of Mount Cook Village, which is a must-visit destination in its own right, and serves as the jumping off point for most Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park ventures. Drive to the White Horse Hill Campground (follow the signs for the Hooker Valley) and park in the day use area. The trail begins at the back of the parking lot (the end opposite to the road entry) with a sign indicating the Sealy Tarns and Mueller Hut Route, as well as Kea Point. If you see signs for the Hooker Valley Track, you're on the wrong side of the lot.

The trail is gentle for the first ten minutes or so, and then turns into a series of steps. These steps (approximately 2,000 of them) lead you steeply out of the valley and up to the ledge that contains the Sealy Tarns. This is a great place to stop and re-group before tackling the next stage of the track. Enjoy views of the tarns and the glacial lakes below, framed by a backdrop of Aoraki/Mount Cook.

From this point on, the trail is considered the Mueller Hut Route and is signed as such. The trail is not benched, but is very easy to follow due to its frequent use. The trail braids substantially up the rocky slope, but all branches head in the generally right direction, and there are no obstructions to sight. Follow the pole markers up a scree slope to reach the top of the day's steep climbing.

From here, the route sidles over large boulders with minimal elevation gain before opening up to the flat area that contains the Mueller Hut. The hut is red and very visible from afar. The last approach to the hut reveals the best views as the valley containing the Mueller Glacier drops away to your right, and Mount Sefton and the Footstool tower above. Mount Cook is still visible, as it is through almost the whole of the journey.

The small, rocky summit behind the Mueller Hut is Mount Ollivier (1933 meters or 6,341 feet) and it is worth scrambling to the top if the weather is fine. It is best climbed before sunrise so that you can watch the peaks turn pink with morning light. The ridge and summit also afford views of Lake Pukaki to the east.

Important note on weather: This is a straightforward route that can turn dangerous in foul weather (which the area is known for). When you check in for your booking at the visitor center you will be advised of the current conditions. The usually dry trail can turn into a cascade in heavy rains (learned from experience). Don't attempt this route until mid-December or later, unless you are skilled with an ice axe and crampons.

Reservations: It is best to book in advance, which can be done online. Bookings are required and the hut can fill up in the busy season. Backcountry hut passes do not apply to this hut.