Is climbing 2,200 steps really worth it for a view?
That's exactly what I wondered before tackling the Sealy Tarns Track, one of the most popular hikes in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park on New Zealand’s South Island.
Nicknamed the Stairway to Heaven, the trail climbs steeply above the Hooker Valley to two small alpine lakes, with spectacular views of Mount Cook, Mueller Glacier and the surrounding Southern Alps. It's a relentless uphill climb, but one of the things that surprised me most was how quickly the incredible scenery opened up, making the effort feel worthwhile long before reaching the top.
We actually completed Sealy Tarns as part of the longer Mueller Hut Route, and I can confidently say the views from Sealy Tarns alone make this hike worth doing. At approximately 5.5 kilometres return, it's a challenging but rewarding option if you want incredible alpine scenery without committing to the full Mueller Hut hike.
In this guide, I'll share our experience hiking the Sealy Tarns Track, including trail details, difficulty, hiking times, a route map and everything you need to know before setting off.
Sealy Tarns Track Hike Overview
Trailhead: Follow signs from the carpark to “Sealy Tarns Track” | Google Maps
Paid Parking: Parking is $25 NZD per day | Google Maps
Free Parking: Outside the paid parking zone | Google Maps
Total Hiking Distance: 5.5 km | out and back
Total Hiking Duration: 3 -4 hour hike | return
Difficulty: Moderate
Altitude: 1,250 meters above sea level
Price: The trail is free
Highlights: Spectacular views over the Hooker Valley, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Mueller Glacier and the surrounding snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, along with the picturesque Sealy Tarns alpine ponds.
Where is the Sealy Tarns Track Hike?
The Sealy Tarns Track is located in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, in the heart of the Southern Alps on New Zealand’s South Island. The trail climbs steeply up the slopes of the Sealy Range, overlooking the spectacular Hooker Valley, before reaching two small alpine ponds known as Sealy Tarns, approximately 1,250 metres above sea level.
The name tarns refers to small mountain lakes or ponds, often formed by glacial activity. Sealy Tarns is particularly famous for its 2,200 steps, earning the hike the nickname "Stairway to Heaven". Despite the demanding climb, the trail is one of the most popular shorter hikes in Mount Cook National Park, offering incredible views of Aoraki / Mount Cook, Mueller Glacier and the surrounding snow-covered peaks.
The nearest settlement is Mount Cook Village, approximately 105 kilometres from Twizel by road. The Sealy Tarns Track is also the first section of the much longer Mueller Hut Route, making it a great alternative for hikers wanting spectacular alpine scenery without committing to the more challenging climb all the way to Mueller Hut.
Sealy Tarns Hike Trailhead
The Sealy Tarns Track begins at White Horse Hill car park, approximately 2.5 kilometres from Mount Cook Village. The car park is easily accessible via Hooker Valley Road and also serves the popular Hooker Valley Track and Kea Point Track.
From the car park, follow the signs towards Sealy Tarns, initially sharing part of the route towards Kea Point before reaching the steep staircase. From here, the trail climbs continuously towards the alpine ponds, where you'll find a picnic table and spectacular views over the Hooker Valley.
Sealy Tarns Track Trailhead: Follow signs from the carpark | Google Maps
New Zealand Highlights:
How to Get to Mount Cook National Park
To hike the Sealy Tarns Track, you'll first need to make your way to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, located in the Southern Alps on New Zealand's South Island. The park is approximately 330 kilometres from Christchurch and 260 kilometres from Queenstown, with driving times of around 4–4.5 hours and 3–3.5 hours, respectively.
Hiring a car is the most convenient way to reach Mount Cook National Park, particularly if you're exploring the South Island on a road trip. Once you arrive in Mount Cook Village, the Sealy Tarns trailhead at White Horse Hill car park is just a few minutes away.
If you don't have a car, tourist coach services connect Mount Cook Village with Christchurch and Queenstown, although departures are limited. I'd recommend checking schedules carefully, as you'll still need to arrange transport from the village to the trailhead.
Hire Car: Self-Drive from Christchurch
I'd recommend hiring a car from Christchurch Airport or the city centre, where you'll find plenty of rental companies to choose from. The drive to Mount Cook National Park takes approximately 4–4.5 hours, following fully sealed highways that are suitable for a standard 2WD hire car in normal conditions.
One of the highlights of the journey is passing through Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki, where the scenery becomes increasingly impressive as you approach the Southern Alps. The final stretch along Mount Cook Road is particularly spectacular, with incredible views of Aoraki / Mount Cook rising above the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki.
I'd definitely recommend allowing extra time for stops along the way, rather than treating the journey as simply a drive to the trailhead. The viewpoints around Lake Pukaki are some of the most beautiful in the region and well worth stopping for photographs.
The journey details are:
Distance: Approximately 330 km from Christchurch
Drive time: Around 4–4.5 hours
Roads: Fully sealed highways, suitable for 2WD vehicles
How to Get to the Sealy Tarns Track Trailhead
Once you've arrived in Mount Cook Village, you'll need to make your way to White Horse Hill car park, where the Sealy Tarns Track begins. The trailhead is approximately 2.5 kilometres from the village, making it easily accessible by car or on foot. Here's what you need to know before setting off.
Self-Drive from Mount Cook Village
Driving to the Sealy Tarns trailhead takes approximately five minutes from Mount Cook Village. The car park is located at the end of Hooker Valley Road, which is fully sealed and suitable for a standard 2WD vehicle.
If you've already hired a car for your South Island road trip, I'd recommend driving directly to the trailhead. It's the easiest option and saves you adding extra distance to an already steep hike involving approximately 2,200 steps.
Where to Park
White Horse Hill car park is the main parking area for the Sealy Tarns Track, also serving the popular Hooker Valley Track and Kea Point Track. Public toilets are available nearby, although the car park can become particularly busy during summer, so I'd recommend arriving early.
Parking within the designated area is paid, costing NZ$2.50 per half-hour or NZ$25 for the day, with the first 20 minutes free for drop-offs and pick-ups. Payment is by debit or credit card only.
Alternatively, free roadside parking may be available outside the paid parking zone along Hooker Valley Road, where permitted. If you choose this option, check the signs carefully and allow extra walking time to reach the trailhead.
Paid Parking: NZ$25 per day | Google Maps
Free Parking: Outside the paid parking zone | Google Maps
Walking to the Trailhead from Mount Cook Village
If you'd prefer to leave your car at your accommodation or have arrived in Mount Cook Village by regional bus, you can also walk to the Sealy Tarns trailhead. The route follows Hooker Valley Road to White Horse Hill car park, where the hike begins.
The walk itself is relatively easy, following a sealed road with gentle elevation changes. However, you'll be adding an extra 5 kilometres return to an already fairly demanding hike, particularly when you consider the 2,200 steps waiting for you on the Sealy Tarns Track.
Personally, I'd recommend driving if you have the option. After completing the steep descent, we were incredibly grateful to have our car waiting at the bottom rather than facing another 2.5-kilometre walk back to the village.
The route details are:
Distance: Approximately 2.5 km each way
Walking time: Around 30–40 minutes each way
Elevation gain: Minimal, with gentle uphill sections
Route: Follow Hooker Valley Road to White Horse Hill car park
Sealy Tarns Track Hike Map
The map below shows the Sealy Tarns Track hiking route, starting from White Horse Hill car park in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. The trail climbs steeply up approximately 2,200 steps to the Sealy Tarns alpine ponds, with spectacular views over the Hooker Valley, Mount Cook and Mueller Glacier. The hike is approximately 5.5 kilometres return, following the same route back to the car park.
Where to Stay for the Sealy Tarns Track Hike
Mount Cook Village is the most convenient place to stay if you're planning to hike the Sealy Tarns Track, located just a few minutes from the trailhead at White Horse Hill car park. Staying here allows you to get an early start and enjoy the incredible mountain scenery without spending much time travelling.
However, unlike the longer Mueller Hut Route, the Sealy Tarns Track can easily be completed in half a day, meaning you don't necessarily need to stay within the national park. If you're passing through on a South Island road trip, it's entirely possible to complete the hike before continuing to your next destination.
Accommodation in Mount Cook Village is limited and generally quite expensive, with only a handful of hotels, lodges and self-contained options available. I'd recommend booking well in advance, particularly during summer, when the village is popular with hikers and visitors exploring the national park.
Twizel is an excellent alternative if you're looking for more affordable accommodation or a wider selection of restaurants, supermarkets and holiday homes. Located approximately 45–50 minutes from Mount Cook Village, it's a practical base for visiting Sealy Tarns and other nearby attractions.
Personally, I'd still recommend spending at least one night in Mount Cook Village if your budget allows. The scenery is absolutely spectacular, and staying nearby gives you the flexibility to tackle Sealy Tarns early in the morning or explore other popular walks such as the Hooker Valley Track and Kea Point Track.
Best Places to stay in Mount Cook Village
Accommodation in Mount Cook Village ranges from luxury hotels with incredible mountain views to smaller alpine lodges and self-contained apartments. Although choices are limited, there are some fantastic properties that allow you to wake up surrounded by the Southern Alps and enjoy the national park without travelling far.
The best places to stay in Mount Cook Village are:
Aoraki Court Motel - A modern property offering self-contained studios and apartments with kitchenettes, private patios and beautiful views of Mount Sefton. The spacious rooms and free parking make it a practical base for exploring the national park. This is where we stayed, and we absolutely loved it. The mountain views from our windows were incredible, and I'd happily recommend it to anyone visiting Mount Cook Village.
Hermitage Hotel Mount Cook - One of the most well-known hotels in the national park, featuring spectacular views of Aoraki / Mount Cook and the surrounding mountains. The property offers a range of hotel rooms, along with on-site restaurants and a café. It's a more expensive option, but the location and scenery make it an excellent choice for visitors wanting a memorable stay.
Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge - A welcoming alpine lodge offering ensuite rooms, a communal kitchen and a spacious lounge with a fireplace. Large windows frame the surrounding mountain scenery, creating a lovely place to unwind after hiking. It's particularly appealing if you'd prefer a smaller property with the flexibility to prepare your own meals.
Best Places to stay in Twizel
Twizel is a great alternative to Mount Cook Village, particularly if you're looking for more affordable accommodation and a greater variety of places to stay. The town has plenty of holiday homes, serviced apartments and motels, making it especially appealing for families or groups wanting extra space. With supermarkets, cafés and restaurants nearby, it's also a convenient place to stock up on supplies before heading into Mount Cook National Park.
The best places to stay in Twizel are:
Alps Motel and Apartments - A centrally located motel offering modern studios and spacious apartments with kitchen facilities, laundry amenities and free parking. Its location within walking distance of Twizel's shops and restaurants makes it a practical choice for travellers wanting everything close by.
The Dales Twizel - A peaceful, adults-only guesthouse in Twizel offering modern, cosy accommodation with private kitchen facilities, a garden and an outdoor hot tub. It's a lovely option for couples wanting a quieter stay, with the added bonus of relaxing in the hot tub after a long day hiking in Mount Cook National Park.
Lake Suites Twizel - A collection of self-contained suites and apartments offering modern interiors, kitchen facilities and private outdoor spaces. Set in a quieter part of Twizel, it's a lovely option for couples or families wanting a little more privacy while remaining close to the town's amenities.
When to Hike the Sealy Tarns Track
The best time to hike the Sealy Tarns Track is between December and March, when New Zealand's summer brings longer days, warmer temperatures and generally better trail conditions. These months are ideal for tackling the famous 2,200 steps without the added challenges of winter snow and ice.
The Sealy Tarns Track isn't officially closed during winter, but snow, ice and avalanche risk can make the steep staircase dangerous. I'd recommend sticking to the summer months unless you have the appropriate alpine experience and equipment. We visited in March, which I'd highly recommend for its pleasant hiking temperatures and generally smaller crowds compared to peak summer.
My biggest recommendation is to save this hike for the clearest day possible. The incredible views over Mount Cook, Mueller Glacier and the Hooker Valley are the main attraction, so it would be a shame to climb all those steps only to find everything hidden behind clouds. I'd personally prioritise good visibility when planning this hike, while also checking the latest Department of Conservation (DOC) track conditions and weather forecast before setting off.
What is the Sealy Tarns Track Like?
The Sealy Tarns Track begins at White Horse Hill car park, initially following a relatively gentle path towards the base of the Sealy Range. However, that easy introduction doesn't last long. Before you know it, you're faced with the famous 2,200 steps of the Stairway to Heaven, which climb steeply up the mountainside towards Sealy Tarns.
The climb is relentless, with very few flat sections to give your legs a break. The staircase winds its way up the hillside, gaining approximately 600 metres in elevation over a relatively short distance. It's certainly a workout, but one thing I loved was how quickly the views began opening up. Even before reaching the halfway point, you'll have incredible views back over the Hooker Valley, Mueller Glacier and surrounding mountains.
As you climb higher, the staircase continues through open alpine vegetation, with increasingly impressive views of Aoraki / Mount Cook rising above the valley. There are plenty of opportunities to stop, catch your breath and enjoy the scenery, which I'd definitely recommend rather than trying to rush your way to the top.
After approximately 1.5–2 hours of climbing, you'll eventually reach Sealy Tarns, two small alpine ponds sitting high above the Hooker Valley. There's a picnic table overlooking the valley, making it a fantastic place to stop for lunch and take in the spectacular mountain scenery.
For most hikers, this is where the adventure ends before returning down the same staircase. However, if you're feeling particularly adventurous and have the experience and equipment for more demanding alpine terrain, the trail continues beyond Sealy Tarns towards Mueller Hut, which we actually completed during our visit.
How Difficult is the Hike?
Don't underestimate the Sealy Tarns Track just because it's relatively short! The hike is approximately 5.5 kilometres return, but with around 600 metres of elevation gain, it's considerably more demanding than the distance might suggest.
The main challenge is undoubtedly the 2,200 steep steps, which provide very little opportunity to recover during the ascent. We found this section to be an absolute slog, particularly as the steps seem to go on forever.
The descent can be just as tiring, especially on your knees, as you'll need to tackle all those steps again on the way down. I'd recommend taking your time and having regular breaks rather than trying to complete the hike as quickly as possible.
You don't need technical hiking experience in suitable summer conditions, but a reasonable level of fitness is definitely recommended. During winter, snow and ice can make the staircase dangerous, potentially requiring specialist alpine equipment and experience.
How Long Does it Take?
The Sealy Tarns Track generally takes around 3–4 hours return, depending on your fitness and how often you stop along the way. Most hikers spend approximately 1.5–2 hours climbing to Sealy Tarns, with the descent usually taking a little less time.
I'd recommend allowing at least four hours for the experience, particularly if you want to spend some time at the top enjoying the views, taking photographs and having something to eat.
We actually continued beyond Sealy Tarns towards Mueller Hut, so our day was considerably longer. However, if you're only hiking to Sealy Tarns, it's a fantastic half-day option that still offers some of the best mountain scenery in Mount Cook National Park.
What to Wear and Bring
Comfortable hiking shoes or trail runners with good grip are suitable for the Sealy Tarns Track in dry summer conditions. The trail is well maintained, although the steep staircase can be demanding, particularly on the descent.
Make sure to carry plenty of water, snacks and a warm waterproof layer, even if the weather looks clear when you leave Mount Cook Village. The trail is exposed, and conditions can become considerably colder and windier as you gain elevation.
My biggest recommendation is to bring something to eat at the top. There's a picnic table overlooking the Hooker Valley, and after climbing 2,200 steps, it's the perfect place to sit back, enjoy the views and appreciate the effort you've just put in.
Is Hiking the Sealy Tarns Track Worth It?
Absolutely. The Sealy Tarns Track is one of the best shorter hikes in Mount Cook National Park, and I'd highly recommend it to anyone wanting spectacular alpine views without committing to a full-day adventure.
What makes this hike particularly rewarding is the amount of scenery you get for the relatively short distance. Although climbing 2,200 steps is no easy task, you're rewarded with incredible views across the Hooker Valley, Mueller Glacier and Aoraki / Mount Cook, with the surrounding mountains becoming more impressive as you gain elevation.
For me, the biggest appeal is how much incredible scenery you get for a relatively short hike. You don't need to spend an entire day hiking or tackle rugged alpine terrain to experience some of the best views in the Southern Alps. In fact, I'd personally recommend the Sealy Tarns Track over the much longer Roys Peak Hike near Wānaka. Despite being considerably shorter, I found the scenery more impressive and the overall hiking experience far more rewarding.
Would I recommend Sealy Tarns over Mueller Hut? Not necessarily.
Having completed both as part of the same hike, I personally found the upper section towards Mueller Hut even more spectacular. However, that route is considerably longer and more challenging, so Sealy Tarns is an excellent alternative if you're short on time or don't feel comfortable tackling the full Mueller Hut Route.
Our Experience of the Sealy Tarns Track
We began our hike from White Horse Hill car park, initially enjoying a relatively gentle walk before reaching the base of the famous staircase. Looking up at the seemingly endless steps, we knew we were in for a serious workout.
The climb was every bit as demanding as we'd expected. The staircase seemed to go on forever, and there were very few opportunities to catch our breath without stopping altogether. However, every time we turned around, the views across the Hooker Valley and surrounding mountains made us forget about our tired legs, at least temporarily.
One thing I particularly enjoyed was watching the landscape change as we gained elevation. The valley gradually opened up beneath us, revealing the enormous glaciers and towering peaks that make Mount Cook National Park so spectacular. We stopped regularly for photographs, partly because the scenery was incredible and partly because our legs needed a break, and I can’t resist a good shot of some mountains!
Reaching Sealy Tarns was a welcome relief after all those steps. The two small alpine ponds sit high above the valley, with a picnic table positioned to take advantage of the incredible views. We stopped here to enjoy some of our packed lunch, take photographs and appreciate the scenery before continuing towards Mueller Hut.
Although we continued beyond Sealy Tarns, I can completely understand why so many hikers choose to turn around here. The views are already spectacular, and you've completed a substantial climb without needing to tackle the rougher alpine terrain further up the mountain.
The descent was another challenge altogether. After completing the longer Mueller Hut Route, coming back down those 2,200 steps was particularly tough on our knees, and we were incredibly grateful when we finally reached the car park.
Looking back, Sealy Tarns is a hike I'd happily recommend in its own right. While the climb certainly requires some effort, the views from the top are absolutely worth it. If you're visiting Mount Cook National Park and only have time for one shorter hike, Sealy Tarns would be very high on my list.
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