Tasman Saddle Hut
Tasman Saddle Hut
Gateway to Glacier Adventures in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
Tasman Saddle Hut is perched high above the Tasman Glacier on a rocky knoll at 2400m in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. Surrounded by towering peaks, vast snowfields, and glacial icefalls, it provides a base for Glacier Trekking, Guided Ascents and Specialized Alpine Climbing Courses in the summer, and Glacier Ski Touring and Split-boarding in the winter. Whether you're here for a guided trip, instructional course, or high-mountain adventure, Tasman Saddle Hut offers unparalleled access to some of the country’s most remote and dramatic alpine terrain. Access is typically by helicopter or ski plane from Mount Cook Airport.
Facilities
Tasman Saddle Hut is a well-equipped alpine shelter maintained by the Department of Conservation, offering 16 bunks with mattresses, solar lighting, cooking utensils, a water tank, and a long-drop toilet. While there is no heating, the hut provides basic shelter for high-altitude stays. On guided trips, all meals, cooking, and equipment are taken care of by your guide, allowing you to relax and focus on the experience. Don't forget to pack a warm sleeping bag and down jacket!
Tasman Saddle Hut Adventures
Our recommendations of things to do at Tasman Saddle Hut.
🎿 Ski Touring & Glacier Skiing
Enjoy long glacial runs and ski touring routes down the Tasman and Murchison Glaciers, with options for both moderate and advanced terrain. Spring offers ideal conditions for guided ski mountaineering.
Ski Tasman Glacier🧗♂️ Alpine Climbing
Climb accessible peaks like Hochstetter Dome, Mount Aylmer, Mount Green, or Elie de Beaumont, offering excellent opportunities for both instructional climbs and guided summits in snow and mixed terrain.
Guided Alpine Ascents🧭 Mountaineering Courses
Tasman Saddle Hut is a popular base for skills courses, covering ice axe and crampon use, rope travel, crevasse rescue, navigation, and glacier safety. Ideal for those preparing for future ascents or seeking an introduction to alpine travel.
Mountaineering Skills Course🥾 Glacier Hikes & High Alpine Treks
Guided glacier hikes and roped treks from the hut allow you to explore the Tasman Glacier's upper reaches without needing to summit technical peaks — perfect for adventurous hikers and photographers.
Tasman Glacier TrekArticles
Features and editorials about Tasman Saddle Hut
Above Worry Level
Mid-winter ascents of Elie de Beaumont and Mount Tasman
A gripping account of two high alpine winter ascents in New Zealand’s Southern Alps — Elie de Beaumont and Mount Tasman — made during a perfect mid-winter weather window. A family expedition filled with glacier travel, summit challenges, breathtaking scenery, and reflection on the contrast between everyday life and the magic of the high mountains.