Dubbed the 'stairway to heaven', 2,200 steps take you straight up to the freshwater lakes of Sealy Tarns. This energetic walk provides spectacular views of the Hooker valley and peaks of the area, including Aoraki/Mount Cook. An abundance of alpine flowers in summer and the views from the tarns make the effort worthwhile.

Start on the Kea Point Track either outside the Aoraki/ Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre or at White Horse Hill car park, at the end of the Hooker Valley Road. Follow the Kea Point Track to the Sealy Tarns turnoff.

The Sealy Tarns Track begins gently until you reach the foot of the Mueller Range. The track zigzags steeply up to Sealy Tarns. The track is very steep and it narrows as it approaches Sealy tarns. It’s easy to slip especially when snow is present. Keep an eye on the weather – there is no shelter or alternative routes, so if you see bad weather approaching (generally from the North-West), we recommend turning back.

A climb to this spot will reward the walker with spectacular views of the Hooker Valley and the peaks in the area, including Aoraki/Mt Cook on a good day. A tarn is the name given to a small mountain lake or pond.

The track is steep and stepped. There is a height gain of 600 m.

Sealy Tarns Track leads on to Mueller Hut Route and Mueller Hut. This is an alpine route that requires mountaineering experience and there can be snow and ice from March to November. 

The track branches off the Kea Point Track, in Aoraki/Mount Cook village.

The Kea Point Track starts on Terrace Road near the Aoraki/ Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre, or at White Horse Hill Campground at the end of the Hooker Valley Road. 

In winter this track can be extremely icy; ice axe/crampons may be required to access the tarns, avalanche risk may exist. Call in to the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre for advice on conditions.

No unauthorised drone use in the national park

Unauthorised use of drones is prohibited. You must have a permit to fly a drone.

DOC does not generally approve permits to fly drones in this national park and we do not recommend you apply for one.

Drone use on conservation land