Empress Hut: A Mountain Retreat in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park
Discover the tranquility and breathtaking beauty of Empress Hut in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Nestled in the breathtaking Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, Empress Hut offers a unique and serene escape for hikers and nature lovers. This mountain cabin is an ideal base for exploring the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s Southern Alps, where adventure awaits at every turn. With panoramic views, fresh alpine air, and a tranquil atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
A brief summary to Empress Hut
- Ball Shelter Rte, Canterbury, 7999, NZ
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the weather conditions before your visit as they can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited at the hut.
- Consider booking a stay during the off-peak season for a more peaceful experience.
- Pack warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer.
Getting There
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Car
From the Aoraki/Mount Cook Village, drive along the Mount Cook Road towards the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre. Park your car in the designated parking area near the Visitor Centre. The Empress Hut is not accessible by car, so the next step will be to hike.
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Hiking
From the Aoraki/Mount Cook Visitor Centre, start the hike on the Ball Shelter Track. The track begins near the Visitor Centre and is well marked. The hike to Empress Hut is approximately 7.5 kilometers (4.7 miles) one way, taking about 3 to 4 hours depending on your fitness level and trail conditions. Follow the signs towards the Ball Shelter, and continue past it towards Empress Hut. The track may have some steep sections, so be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water.
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Public Transportation
If you are traveling via public transport, catch a bus from Christchurch or Queenstown to the Mount Cook Village. Once you arrive at the Mount Cook Village, follow the same instructions for hiking from the Visitor Centre to reach Empress Hut. Note that you may need to check the bus schedules in advance to ensure timely arrivals.
Discover more about Empress Hut
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Empress Hut
0.0 km
Discover the tranquility and breathtaking beauty of Empress Hut in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
2.1 km
Discover the majestic Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak, New Zealand's highest mountain, a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Ball Hut
6.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ball Hut in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park—your perfect mountain retreat amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Copland Shelter
6.9 km
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Hooker Lake
9.3 km
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Douglas Rock Hut
10.5 km
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Victoria Falls
10.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures at Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Sefton Bivouac
11.0 km
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Tasman Glacier Car Park
12.0 km
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The Second Swing Bridge
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Mueller Lake
12.5 km
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White Horse Hill Campground
14.0 km
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Mt Cook Chalets
15.4 km
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Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
15.5 km
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The Hermitage Hotel
15.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Aoraki / Mount Cook
1.6 km
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Mt Cook
1.8 km
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Mount Cook Middle Peak
2.1 km
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Ball Pass
5.9 km
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Tasman Glacier
7.7 km
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Fox Glacier Heli Hiking
9.6 km
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Hooker Valley Track
10.6 km
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Westland Tai Poutini National Park
11.1 km
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Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
11.3 km
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Blue Lake
11.4 km
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Blue Lakes
11.8 km
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Hooker Hut
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Tasman Glacier Viewpoint
11.9 km
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Fox Glacier Valley Walk
12.5 km
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Tasman Glacier View near the lake
12.6 km
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Essential places to dine
Alpine Restaurant
15.5 km
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Chamois Bar & Grill
15.9 km
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The Last Kitchen
16.6 km
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Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
16.6 km
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The White Pub Cafe & Bar
16.7 km
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Breakfast Restaurant
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Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
16.9 km
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High Peaks Hotel
17.9 km
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Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
23.3 km
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SnakeBite Brewery
23.5 km
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The Landing Restaurant & Bar
23.6 km
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Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
23.6 km
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Monsoon Restaurant
23.8 km
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Rainforest Retreat
23.8 km
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King Tiger
24.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
NZ Post Centre Mt Cook
15.4 km
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On the Spot Fox Glacier Motors
16.6 km
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NPD Fox Glacier Motors
16.6 km
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Cafe Nevé
16.7 km
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On the Spot Fox Glacier
16.7 km
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Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
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Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
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Experience Fox Glacier
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NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier
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Fox Glacier Community Centre
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EuniQ Patchwork
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Misty Peaks Boutique Accommodation
17.5 km
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Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
19.5 km
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ReflectioNZ Gifts & Gallery
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Matheson Cafe
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Snowline Bar
15.5 km
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Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
16.5 km
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Bella Vista Fox Glacier
16.6 km
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The Westhaven Motel
16.7 km
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Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
16.8 km
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Rainforest Motel
16.8 km
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Sunset Motel
17.4 km
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NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
18.2 km
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Moa Bar
23.7 km
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The Hard Antler
92.3 km
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