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Not done climbing after Sealy Tarns? Then head on up the ridge on this scree-filled scramble to a memorable hut site.


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Map Key

1.4

Miles

2.2

KM

54%

Runnable

5,907' 1,800 m

High

4,271' 1,302 m

Low

1,666' 508 m

Up

30' 9 m

Down

24%

Avg Grade (13°)

66%

Max Grade (33°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Commonly Backpacked · Views

Avalanche danger in the winter and spring. This is not a maintained route, and the footing can be loose and dangerous.

Bookings are required for Mueller Hut and can be made online.

Runner Notes

This would be a tough and potentially hazardous run. Not everyone's cup of tea, but certain runners might enjoy the challenge.

Description

If you haven't had enough climbing for one day after running the stairs on Sealy Tarns, continue on the Mueller Hut Track for even more vertical gain. The track is marked by orange posts and weaves through rocky terrain interspersed with some alpine scrubs and tussocks. This track is not maintained, and the path is sometimes hard to find.

Near the top of the ridge, there is one large scree field with loose footing where you'll want to use caution. Once to the top of this ridge, the view of Mueller Glacier and the spectacular snow-covered slopes of Mount Sefton are impressive. Depending on the time of year, keep an ear open for what sounds like thunder, but is actually the sounds of avalanches on the nearby slopes of Mt. Sefton—an impressive sight to see!

From here, the track winds south toward Mueller Hut. Keep an eye open for the orange markers as the track winds along the rocky backside of the ridge until you reach a small plateau, which is the especially scenic setting for Mueller Hut. The hut has 28 bunks and cooking facilities and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

Contacts

Shared By:

Kristen McGlynn

Trail Ratings

  4.8 from 12 votes

#397

Overall
  4.8 from 12 votes
5 Star
83%
4 Star
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3 Star
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Trail Rankings

#2

in New Zealand

#397

Overall
18 Views Last Month
1,327 Since May 29, 2017
Difficult Difficult

0%
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93%
7%

Photos

NZ Mountain Safety Council has created this video guide for the Mueller Hut Route. The whole route is in alpine terrain. This video covers the whole track and shows you how to prepare for a successful trip and make it home safely.
Feb 25, 2020 near Mount C…, NZ
Mueller's Hut snow approach
Feb 20, 2021 near Mount C…, NZ

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