Sealy Tarns Track Aoraki Mount Cook National Park
Conquer the 'stairway to heaven' for unparalleled alpine views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Southern Alps.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, warmer temps
Sealy Tarns Track Aoraki Mount Cook National Park
Best Time
Clearer skies, warmer temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Conquer the 'stairway to heaven' for unparalleled alpine views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Southern Alps.
"The 2,000 stairs are worth it (I promise!!!) for the views. "
👟 Gear Up for the Climb
Sturdy hiking shoes & poles are a must for the steep, often slippery stairs.
❄️ Winter Traction Essential
Microspikes are highly recommended in winter for icy conditions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sealy Tarns Viewpoint
Summit of the track
The ultimate reward: breathtaking panoramas of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Southern Alps.
The Endless Staircase
Ascent to the viewpoint
An iconic, challenging climb of over 2,200 steps offering ever-improving views.
Alpine Panorama
Various lookout points
Stunning vistas of glaciers, lakes, and the majestic peaks of the Southern Alps.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the 'Stairway to Heaven'
Winter Wonders & Weather Watch
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Gear Up for the Climb
Sturdy hiking shoes & poles are a must for the steep, often slippery stairs.
❄️ Winter Traction Essential
Microspikes are highly recommended in winter for icy conditions.
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Start early to avoid the busiest times and enjoy a more peaceful hike.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
There are no water sources on the track, so bring enough for your hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Gear Up for the Climb
Sturdy hiking shoes & poles are a must for the steep, often slippery stairs.
❄️ Winter Traction Essential
Microspikes are highly recommended in winter for icy conditions.
⏰ Beat the Crowds
Start early to avoid the busiest times and enjoy a more peaceful hike.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
There are no water sources on the track, so bring enough for your hike.
☁️ Check the Weather
Conditions can change rapidly in the mountains; always check forecasts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Sealy Tarns Track for its absolutely breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding Southern Alps, calling it a 'must-do' for its unparalleled alpine panoramas. However, many emphasize that the hike is significantly more challenging than 'moderate,' citing the steepness and over 2,200 stairs, and strongly recommend proper hiking gear, especially in winter conditions.
"Place had fantastic view and a great hike. But definitely not moderate and do include more time if needed. Steep section of stairs with no handle rails. Please bring a hiking pole and wear hiking shoes."
Eric Loke
"The Sealy Tarns Track is a challenging but incredibly rewarding hike that offers some of the most breathtaking alpine views in the Mount Cook National Park. Be prepared for a serious workout as there are a lot of stairs (over 2,200), and the elevation gain is no joke.
While the summit tarns themselves were recently frozen over due to a recent avalanche and lingering snow, the views along the way more than made up for it. In fact, the lookout points during the ascent arguably offered better scenery than the summit this time around.
There was a significant amount of snow and ice on the track, especially higher up. Microspikes and hiking poles are highly recommended for traction and stability—it can get dangerously slippery. Temperature fluctuations between sun-exposed and shaded areas also created varying trail conditions, making it even more essential to come well-prepared.
This is a difficult but beautiful hike that should not be underestimated. It can be dangerous if you're not equipped for alpine conditions. Bring proper gear, check the weather, and don’t come unprepared."
Fiona K
"100% worth the hike! We went middle of winter, after rain and snow and it was amazing. Took 4 hours in total from Village car park which included numerous stops for photos and a decent amount of time enjoying the view from the top. Not for the faint hearted if you’re not a fan of stairs!"
Jessica Darley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. From the village, it's a short walk (5-10 minutes) to the start of the track, which branches off near the Kea Point track. Parking is available nearby.
Yes, there is free parking available near the trailhead in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Yes, the track is accessible in winter, but conditions can be challenging with snow and ice. Proper gear like microspikes and hiking poles are essential.
The Hermitage Hotel is a popular choice with stunning views, located close to the national park.
The Sealy Tarns Track is a popular side trip or part of the longer Mueller Hut Route, offering incredible views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and the Sealy Tarns Track is free.
The track is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No, there is no entrance fee for Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. It's a public park managed by the Department of Conservation.
While not strictly necessary due to the well-marked trail, guided tours can enhance the experience by providing local insights and ensuring safety, especially in challenging conditions.
Booking accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, through hotel websites or booking platforms.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The track is considered challenging due to its steep ascent and over 2,200 steps. It's not a moderate hike as some might assume.
The hike typically takes around 3-4 hours return, including time for photos and enjoying the views.
Wear sturdy hiking boots, comfortable athletic clothing, and layers. In winter, waterproof and windproof outer layers are crucial.
Basic facilities like information boards are available. It's advisable to use restrooms in the village before starting your hike.
Expect unparalleled panoramic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook, the Mueller Glacier, Hooker Glacier, and the surrounding Southern Alps.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting, but the midday sun can also provide clear, sharp views of the mountains.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, and a telephoto lens can bring distant peaks closer. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Every lookout point along the ascent offers unique perspectives. The summit viewpoint is the most iconic, but don't overlook the smaller clearings.
Drone usage is restricted in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check current DOC regulations.
After rain or snow, the tarns can offer beautiful reflections of the surrounding mountains, though they may be frozen in winter.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Challenge of the Climb
While the climb is strenuous, the rewards are immense. The track is well-maintained, but in winter or after heavy rain, it can become icy and slippery, necessitating the use of microspikes for safe passage.
Key Takeaway: Don't underestimate the climb. Proper preparation, including good footwear and potentially traction aids in winter, is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience on the Sealy Tarns Track.
Winter Wonders and Alpine Conditions
Even if the tarns themselves are frozen over due to lingering snow or avalanches, the panoramic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding Southern Alps remain breathtaking.
Essential Winter Gear:
* Waterproof and windproof outer layers
* Warm base and mid-layers
* Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
* Microspikes or crampons for traction
* Hiking poles
* Plenty of water and high-energy snacks
Capturing the Iconic Views
For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset when the light casts a warm glow on the mountains.
Photography Tips:
* Bring a wide-angle lens for expansive landscapes.
* A telephoto lens helps capture distant mountain details.
* Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
* Be patient; weather can change quickly, offering unique photographic opportunities.
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