Each week, we highlight our fave tramping trails in New Zealand for day and multi day hikes across Nelson Tasman (and beyond!)
Hopeless Hut (6 bunk) is perched in a beautiful wee spot below the towering Angelus Ridge. It is kitted out with a snug woodburner and comfortable bunks, and has some additional “overflow” space next door as there aren’t many tent spots! It is quintessential NZ backcountry magic, and is a great option if you’re looking to dip your toe into more off-the-beaten-track missions.
Note: the hut is located in an avalanche path and DOC advises not to stay here during winter storms. So spring is the perfect time for a visit, to catch a glimpse of Nelson Lakes in all it's snow-capped glory!
Let’s look at a couple of route options:
Out-and-Back
2 Days
Distance: 22.5km one way
Elevation: 546m gain
Park at Kerr Bay in St Arnaud, and walk along Lake Rotoiti towards Lakehead Hut. If you’re keen to shorten your journey, catch a water taxi to the end of the lake. Keep heading up the valley until you reach the turnoff for Hopeless Track - about 20km!
Sunset Saddle/Angelus Hut Loop
2-3 Days
Distance: 45km
Elevation: 2500m gain
For a more adventurous tramp, consider tackling Sunset Saddle - with an option to summit Mount Angelus - and Robert Ridge. Park at the start of Lakeside Track, and walk down the west side of Lake Rotoiti. After spending the night at Hopeless Hut, continue up the valley until you reach a waterfall in a large basin. Most people head up the scree slope to the left (check the topo - it’s steep!), but it is a purely cairned route from here on out, so choose your own adventure! It is fairly slow-going for a couple of hours, rock hopping through the basin, until you reach the saddle. From here Mt Angelus is a short, exposed scramble away, with the most incredible views from the top! Drop down into Angelus basin, staying west of Hinapouri Tarn and follow the cairns to Angelus Hut. On the last day you could head out via Speargrass Track, Robert Ridge, or Cascade Track - so many options!
