Mueller Hut, nestled in the heart of Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park on New Zealand's South Island, is a renowned alpine refuge offering stunning views and unforgettable hiking experiences. Mueller Hut sits at an elevation of 1,800 meters, providing panoramic views of the surrounding Southern Alps, including the towering peak of Aoraki/Mt. Cook, New Zealand's highest mountain 🏔️.
The hike to Mueller Hut is a challenging yet rewarding adventure, typically taking around 4-6 hours to ascend from the White Horse Hill Campground. The trail is a quite steep track via a series of switchbacks known as the Sealy Tarns Track. Along the way, we were treated to breathtaking views of the Hooker Valley, Mueller Glacier, and the turquoise waters of Mueller Lake ❄️.
Upon reaching Mueller Hut, we were greeted by a cozy red alpine shelter equipped with bunk beds, a cooking area, and basic amenities. The hut provides a welcome refuge for overnight stays, so we did and had the most beautiful sunrise and sunset (look at the pictures for evidence 🌞).
In addition to the iconic Mueller Hut hike, Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park offers a wealth of outdoor activities, including Tasman Lake Hike & Hooker Valley Track. A visit to Aoraki National Park is a MUST-DO if you’re traveling in the South Island 🧚🏼.