Each week, we highlight our fave tramping trails in New Zealand for day and multi day hikes across Nelson Tasman (and beyond!)
You just can’t beat Nelson Lakes on a bluebird day, especially from the soaring summit of Mt Misery (1601m). Once you’ve completed the hefty climb that is!
Distance: 10km one-way
Elevation: +1200m -146m
Mt Misery is located at the end of Lake Rotoroa, and can be accessed by boat or by foot (via Speargrass or Angelus). We’d highly recommend catching the water taxi to Sabine or D’Urville Hut, or if you’re feeling a tad more adventurous – perhaps a paddle!
According to DOC track signage the climb up to the hut takes 3 hours, but someone clearly disagreed and has scratched 4! With 1100m of elevation over 2.5kms, you can see why. Luckily the trail will warm you up on a gentler gradient before the grunt really kicks in!
Despite the steepness, the track itself is lovely. You’ll be surrounded by a gorgeous native forest of ferns, beech trees & lichen, with only a handful of slippery spots!
The bushline ends and poled route begins at 1400m, with some climbing still to go. But once you’re up on the ridge you’ll forget all about your burning quads!
A full 360 degree panorama awaits, with views of Lake Rotoroa, the ridge stretching towards Mt Windward, the stunning Travers Range and the imposing Ella Range.
Further along you’ll locate Misery Hut: a very wee 4 bunker, with no fire but its own tarn right next door! And how can we not mention the – rather exposed – loo with a view.. Guess you’ll just have to find out for yourselves!
