How to hike the Sealy Tarns, Mount Cook: The ultimate “Stairway to Heaven” guide (2025)

Although not one of the great walks according to the DOC. I personally think the Sealy Tarns Hike is one of the most stunning hikes in New Zealand. Labelled the “Stairway to Heaven”, this 2,200 step hike will have you puffed out but will reward you with the most stunning panoramic views of Mount Cook and the Hooker Valley.

As the Hooker Valley walk is currently closed (plans to reopen Autumn 2026), this is a fantastic substitute. 

My brother and I completed this hike in May, which is the last month of autumn in New Zealand. We had perfect weather conditions, with the morning starting chilly and gradually getting to highs of 16 degrees. We also got a bluebird day, which made the views even more spectacular. 

I personally found this hike difficult, as I don’t like stairs, but Callum, who is more of a mountain goat, found it moderate. 

That being said, it is worth every step to see the Sealy Tarns View Point. 

Sealy Tarns hike, New Zealand 

In this post we will cover everything you need to know about this epic trail, from what to expect on the hike to where to park, the best time to visit, and more. 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which earn me a small commission from bookings at no extra cost to you. Thank you for reading and supporting my blog. I appreciate every click. 

Trail Information

• Distance: 5.8km / 3.6 miles return
• Duration: 3 to 4 hours 
• Elevation: 600m / 1,969ft 
• Track type: Out and back
• Trailhead: White Horse Hill Campground 

How to prepare for the Sealy Tarns track 

The track leading to the Sealy Tarns viewpoint is well maintained and features numerous passing sections that allow walkers to overtake one another. These sections also give you plenty of opportunity to take in the view and rest before continuing. 

The hike doesn’t require walking boots, but I recommend a solid, grippy trainer like the Salomon X Ultra 360. If you decide to continue on from the tarns hike to the Muller Hut you will be climbing/scrambling.

To reiterate, the New Zealand DOC website states no drones are permitted in Mount Cook National Park unless you have special permission. This is for safety reasons, as helicopters frequent the area for heli evacs and scenic tours. 

Please don’t be that guy who ignores it, like the French backpacker who was zooming the drone around and nearly landing it on our sandwiches. 

What to pack: 

• A jumper is advisable, as it can get cold and windy at the summit
• A packed lunch, as there is a long bench up there 
• Mini first aid kit
• Reusable water bottle
• Camera or phone for pictures

How to get to the Sealy Tarns Trail

The trailhead for Sealy Tarns is located at White Horse Hill Campground in Mount Cook. This area offers ample parking, a visitor information board, and toilet facilities.

The Mount Cook National Park roads are easy to navigate, and each trailhead is well signposted. 

I recommend renting a car or campervan for your South Island road trip, as this is the best form of transport to get to Mount Cook. 

I booked my rental car through DiscoverCars, who charged me $60 NZD (£26.46) for 6 days. I also added insurance for $12 (£5.90) a day to cover any unexpected damages. This was so affordable I actually didn’t believe the price.

We decided to stay in Twizel, as the drive to Mount Cook was only an hour. 

If you plan on driving from Queenstown, the distance is 264km / 164 miles and will take around 3 hours and 15 minutes. 

From Lake Tekapo the drive will be 105km / 65km and take 1 hour 15 minutes. 

And from Christchurch the journey will take 332km / 206 miles and around 4 hours. 

What to expect when you do the Sealy Tarns hike in Mount Cook 

How the trail starts

The trail starts with a gentle flat walk from White Horse Hill Campground. The path is clearly marked, and there is a sign for Sealy Tarns, Kea Point, and Muller Hut almost straight away. 

You can start this hike from Mount Cook Village, although it adds another hour of walking. 

Incredible views of Aoraki/Mount Cook greet you before you even leave the car park. 

After 10 minutes of walking on a flat gravel path, you will be met with a fork in the road. You will be turning left to start your climb up the 2,200 steps. 

If you turn right, you will be on the Kea Point track. Although it is only a 15 minute walk from this point, I suggest waiting until the end of your hike to tag this part on. 

Trust me, you will want to save your energy for all those stairs!

The path takes you through bushland and beech trees before slowly starting to ascend. 

The Sealy Tarns Stairway to Heaven Steps begin

The bench seat marks the start of your uphill climb. I think I made it up 50 steps before telling Callum to go on without me. The poor boy was waiting for ages as I was taking a break every 10 steps. I do have to stress that I have little legs and small lungs. 

Although not a long distance, the 2km of steps will feel like forever. 

The stairs are different sizes, lengths and shapes and zigzag up the beautiful green bushland. 

As you continue up you will be wowed at the distance you have covered in such a short space of time. 

The views are spectacular as you look over the Glacial Blue Water of Mueller Lake. 

As I took a lot of breaks or some would say photo opportunities, I was wowed at how the view just kept getting better after every corner. 

Halfway up you will come to some big boulders (you will know it when you see them). This is the perfect place for a drink and a snack or, if you aren’t feeling the hike, a good turning around point. But I do encourage you to push through and keep going as the reward is worth it. 

On the wood panel of the set of steps by the boulders, you will see someone has written 800 steps from the bottom. That little note was incredibly encouraging and helped me push on as I knew I had made it so far. 

After the 800th step, the stairs seem to space out, allowing little breaks of flat before you continue ascending. 

Eventually, the stairs cease, and you only have a 220m walk to the view point.

Sealy Tarns viewpoint

After deciding to go straight instead of left to the Mueller Hut trail, you will have a short walk to get to the iconic Sealy Tarns Viewpoint. Just before you reach the jaw dropping, picture-perfect spot, you will see the tarns, which is a small lake that will reflect Mount Cook perfectly at the right angle. 

At the top is a long picnic bench which is one of the prettiest places to eat lunch.

The Sealy Tarns Viewpoint gives you a birds eye view overlooking Aoraki/Mount Cook, Mount Sefton, Mueller Glacier, the Hooker Glacier, and the glacial lakes they feed.

Sealy Tarns to Mueller Hut Track 

If you fancy a challenge, and you love a scramble and epic views, then you need to continue onto the Mueller Hut track. 

The well maintained path stops at the Sealy Tarns Viewpoint and changes into a rougher, more natural track. 

Make sure you have plenty of daylight, as this is an out-and-back trail.  

I have been told on several occasions that it is the favourite hike in Mount Cook. 

As I was slow, Callum decided to continue up the Mueller Hut track however, he overestimated the length of time it would take. 

It is 1.1 km longer than the Sealy Tarns trail and an estimated 20 minutes more on Google Maps, but this doesn’t account for the terrain.

Be prepared to add another couple of hours on. 

He made it to the ridge before hiking back down to meet me for lunch.

You can hike up to Mueller Hut in a day however, people choose to book an overnight at the hut, as the sunsets are said to be incredible. 

Way down from the Sealy Tarns 

Since the Sealy Tarns is an out-and-back hike, you’ll descend the same way you came up.

I found the way down even more beautiful than the way up. The sun had fully risen, and the colours were so vibrant. Callum and I walked down together, which was nice.

I will warn you now: by the end of this beautiful hike, you will get jelly legs. 

I felt so wobbly but then proceeded to climb another 300 steps up to the Tasman Glacier Hike. 

Best time to do the Sealy tarns hike in New Zealand

If you want to avoid the crowds, I suggest hiking in the spring or the autumn. 

The spring will give you plenty of beautiful wildflowers and it will be warmer. We chose to hike in the Autumn and had the most perfect day. The start of the hike was a little cold as the sun was behind the mountain, but as it rose, the temperature got warmer and more pleasant. 

When you reach the viewpoint, the wind will pick up, so make sure you pack a jumper or a layer. 

Where to stay in and around Mount Cook

I wont sugar coat it. Sleeping in Mount Cook National Park comes with a price tag unless you camp.

However, if you want to cover a lot of hikes in a short period of time, then it makes sense to stay close to the trailheads.

If you are only planning to explore Mount Cook for a day, then I recommend booking accommodation in Twizel.

Twizel is one hour’s drive from the national park and is an incredible drive. I would go as far as saying the drive is part of the experience.

Mount Cook White Horse Camp Ground 

If you have camping equipment or a campervan, then the best option is White Horse Camp Ground. Non-powered campsites start from $20 (£8.77) per person and come with the basic facilities like long drops, water tap and shelter to cook your meals. 

Although not luxury, you will be sleeping under the stars with no light pollution and surrounded by mountains, which, in my opinion, is so much better. 

Haka House Hostel

Mount Cook does have a hostel called Haka House, but it won’t be the hostel prices you are used to. 

However, saying that this hostel is gorgeous with spacious common areas, curtains and personal plug sockets. Starting from $60 for a 10-bed dorm, you can be inches away from the mountains. 

The hostel is also located in the International Dark Sky Reserve, making it the perfect place to star gaze. 

Twizel Accommodation

This time around, we stayed at Twizel Holiday Park in a cabin. I had stayed there a few years prior on a non-powered campsite and thought it was alright with reasonable pricing. But this time I think we got unlucky. 

Our cabin smelt like something had died in it and the door was practically hanging off its hinges and wouldn’t slide properly. I wanted to tell the front desk when we checked out, but like check-in, there was no one there. 

We also had a terrifying encounter with a man who lived a couple of doors down from the holiday park that followed a girl back to her camp and then proceeded to get in our faces and follow us. I managed to defuse the situation, but I was on edge all night. 

If I had my time again, I would stay at Lake Rutaaniwha Holiday Park. They are a similar price and cater in a similar way with powered and non–powered tent sites, cabins and they even have a motel option. 

The location is picturesque, sitting on the Lakeshore of Lake Rutaniwha surrounded by the southern alps. The holiday park is a 7-minute drive from the centre of Twizel. 

The park sits on 50 acres of native pine forest 

Allowing easy access to hike, cycle, kayak, and swim. 

Other hikes to do in Mount Cook.

As Mount Cook has a range of hikes for different ability levels, I recommend doing more than one if time allows. 

Mount Cook has 30 hikes according to all trails. Some popular hikes include:

Hooker Valley (reopening August 2026) 

• Distance: 10.9km / 6.8 miles 
• Duration: 2.5 hours to 3.5
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 197m 
• Track Type: Out and back 
• Starting point: White Horse Hill campground. 

I have walked this stunning trail twice, once in summer and once in winter and both offer truly beautiful landscapes. 

The hike is easy with the majority of the walk being flat. This is hands down the most popular hike to do in Mount Cook.

Tasman Glacier Lookout 

• Distance: 1.1km / 0.7 miles 
• Duration: 30 minutes return
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 76m 
• Track Type: Out and back
• Starting point: Tasman Glacier Car Park 

This short and sweet hike consists of 300 steps and takes you to the beautiful Tasman Glacier that also offers panoramic views of Mount Cook National Park. 

Callum and I did this hike after Sealy Tarns and our legs were like Jelly. Callum was a little grumpy that I forgot to mention there were 300 more steps to go (oopsie!) but the views were worth the little climb. 

This is a popular walk amongst the tour buses, so be prepared to share the space.

Red Tarns 

• Distance: 3.7km / 2.3 miles
• Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours 
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation: 330m 
• Track type: Out and back 
• Starting point: Mount Cook Village public shelter on Bowen Drive 

The Red Tarns hike is short and steep. There are a significant number of steps and 300m elevation gain. However, the reward for the climb is worth it with panoramic views overlooking the village, Hooker Valley and Mount Cook. 

The track gets its name from the small alpine lakes at the top, which are colored red by a rare species of pondweed.

Kea Point 

• Distance: 2.9km / 1.8 miles 
• Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 88m 
• Track Type: Out and back
• Starting point: White Horse Hill Camp Ground

The Kea Point track is a great one to add after the Sealy Tarns hike. 

Both trails start and end on the same path, making it easy to complete the pair. 

Allow an extra 30 minutes return.

During the trail you get stunning views of Mount Sefton, The Footstool, Hooker valley, Mueller Glacier Lake, and Aoraki/Mount Cook.

This hike offers big rewards for minimal effort. 

Mount Ollivier Summit 

• Distance: 11.1km / 6.9 miles 
• Duration: 6 to 8 hours 
• Difficulty: Challenging 
• Elevation: 1.151m 
• Starting point: White Horse Hill Camp Ground

Mount Ollivier Summit is essentially 3 hikes in one. 

This hike is a challenging alpine route that extends from the Muller hut track. 

• The first section of the hike is Sealy Tarns, where you hike up the 2,200 steps..
• The second section is scrambling up a natural track to the Mueller Hut
• The third and final section is from the hut to the summit of Mount Ollivier. This part is short but a steeper rock scramble that requires careful footing,

However, the reward is 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks. 

Other things to do in Mount Cook 

Although Mount Cook is predominantly for hiking there are other awesome and fun you can do in this National Park.

Mount Cook Tasman Glacier Heli Hike

A Heli Hike on Mount Cooks Tasman Glacier is an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe for years to come

I did the Franz Josef Heli Hike in 2018, and it was INCREDIBLE. As global warming increases and the glacier gets smaller, I am so glad I had that opportunity. 

Combining a scenic flight over Mount Cook and walking on New Zealand’s biggest glacier is a moment you will never forget. This incredible experience is expensive, but I promise you it is worth every penny. I am still talking about my heli hike 8 years on and still saying it was one of the coolest experiences. 

Your tour guide will take you through ice formations, let you drink the freshest mountain water, carve steps to help you take on the glacier and assist you with your photos. 

Additionally you will experience scenic flight over this incredible landscape.

Star Gazing at Mount Cook 

If you are staying overnight in Mount Cook, then you need to take full advantage of the little to no light pollution. 

Mount Cook is in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. This means light pollution in this area is strictly controlled, resulting in a clear and dark night sky. 

On a clear night, you can see millions of stars and constellations unique to the Southern Hemisphere. You will also get the opportunity to see the incredible Milky Way. With the mountains in the foreground, this gives you a breath-taking star show. 

Don’t be disheartened if you are staying in Twizel, as you are still located in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. 

Park your rental car along the shores of Lake Pukaki and stargaze for free beneath one of the clearest skies in the world, or join a guided tour led by a qualified astronomer who’ll unveil the science, stories, and wonder hidden among the stars.

Skydive 

If you are feeling brave and fearless, then I can think of no better place to skydive than over Aoraki/Mount Cook. 

Experience up to 70 seconds of exhilarating free fall before your parachute opens, giving you time to soak in the breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, and rolling meadows below.

You can choose to jump from 13,000, or 16,500 feet for the ultimate thrill.

Swim at Blue Lakes 

A refreshing and free activity to enjoy after a long hike or a warm day is a swim at Blue Lakes.

A word of warning: this lake is glacier-fed so the water will be freezing!! 

Frequently asked questions 

Is Sealy Tarns Hard? 

Personally I found the Sealy Tarns hike tough. I find climbing stairs to be harder than walking up a steep incline. However, I would count this hike as moderate to challenging depending on your fitness level.

How long is the walk up Sealy Tarns? 

The walk up the Sealy Tarns track is 1 and a half to 2 hours, with the round trip taking between 3 and 4 hours depending on how many times you stop.

How do I get to the Sealy Tarns Track? 

The Sealy Tarns hike starts at White Horse Hill car park; at the end of the Hooker Valley Road, parking is free and the trail is well sign posted.

Can you do the Mueller Hut in one day? 

Yes, you can do the Mueller Hut track in one day. Most  people choose to stay at the Mueller Hut overnight, as the sunsets are phenomenal up there. 

What is the closest town to Mount Cook? 

The closest town to Mount Cook is Twizel. The drive is one hour and one of the most scenic routes in New Zealand. There are many viewpoints along the way and plenty of places to pull over and take photos. 

Final thoughts 

In summary, the Sealy Tarns Hike truly lives up to its nickname, the Stairway to Heaven. While it’s a leg burner with 2,200 steps to conquer, every drop of sweat is rewarded with some of the most breathtaking views in New Zealand.

From the mirror-like tarns reflecting Aoraki/Mount Cook to the sweeping alpine panoramas that surround you, it’s an unforgettable experience for those willing to take on the challenge.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just someone chasing epic views, Sealy Tarns is a must-do adventure in Mount Cook National Park.