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Mt Misery

November 08, 2023

Mt Misery
Mt Misery at the southern end of Lake Rotoroa in the Nelson Lakes National Park has been on the to do list for quite sometime. Being a short but steep climb to get to Mt Misery Hut we thought that it would be great trip for the kids 6 and 8, although some misery was anticipated on the uphill. With an elevation gain of about 1100m, and the with the added weight of the kids gear to lug up as well it was going to be a slow but steady trip, however the luxury of a cosy little hut above bush line was very inviting.
With snow down to around 900m the night before, the climb was very slippery, a combination of wet mud, slick black sooty beech mold and leaf littler. The complaining was vehement and dissolved into a full meltdown (6year old) at 1100m, however this was resolved by a break, a hot brew of two minute noodles and some icicles. With a continuous supply of icicles until the bush line the rest of the climb was much more enjoyable, and we popped out into the open sooner than expected to soak up the warm sun. There were fantastic views the length of Lake Rotoroa and the Travers Ranges towered beside us to the east.
Mt Misery Hut was an easy wander along the ridge, situated next to a small tarn. There were 4 mattresses but only a wide enough sleeping space for 3 mattresses to fit, so I guess the spare is for the floor. The kid’s conked out straight away for a siesta in the warm hut which soaked up the afternoon sun and held the heat surprisingly well overnight. 
We took turns venturing along the ridge to the south along the Mahanga Range while they napped, which held huge, distant views of the Travers Range, D’Urville River and Ella Range with the Mole Tops clearly visible. The ridge line was a pleasant stroll past rolling contours (with a step drop into the D’Urville), little tarns, lovely vegetation, and 360 degree views.
I must mention the loo: a round plastic contraption with a toilet seat on it out in the open which was greeted at first with distain, and confusion, then appreciated for the spectacular views.










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