Angelus Hut at 1,650 metres, sits on the shores of Lake Angelus surrounded by spectacular mountain views.
From May to October in most years, the lake is frozen, snow blankets all four routes, and you may have to dig your way to the hut.
You must be fit enough to walk for 2–3 days, up to 12.2 km for 6 hours per day and climb to 1,800 m. You must be comfortable on rough terrain and without a fear of heights. Or for those super fit it can be done as a day walk or run, on my way out I passed a day runner on her way in only 1 km from the hut at 10 am.
There are four options to reach Angelus Hut:
Pinchgut Track, Robert Ridge Route
The most popular route in fine weather. Expect ice and snow during winter and spring. A very exposed ridge subject to high wind and poor visibility. There is no water along the track/route.
Speargrass Track, Speargrass Creek Route
This route is often used to exit Rotomaninitua/Lake Angelus in bad weather. There are unbridged stream crossings, and the route is marked with poles for navigation. There may be muddy sections below the bush edge.
Travers – Cascade Track/Route
Expect ice and snow during winter and spring. Above the bush edge route navigation is via poles and cairns. From May to November, the bridge over the Hukere Stream is removed due to avalanche risk. After rain and during snow melt, crossing the river can be difficult – take extreme care.
Mt Cedric Track/Route
This route would only be used by trampers accessing Angelus Hut via the Travers–Sabine Circuit. There is no water along the track/route. Expect ice and snow during winter and spring. The track is a steep climb to the bush edge. Route navigation above the bush edge is via poles and cairns. A very exposed ridge, subject to high winds and poor visibility.
This is an alpine environment and conditions can change rapidly please be prepared for anything. The hut and campsite must be booked online and make sure you have read the Angelus Hut tracks and routes brochure.
The Cache is hidden a short way and out of sight of the camping area. You could be observed from anyone on the ridge above but they will be far enough away not to see what you are up to. Please make sure the rocks are place back in to keep it nice and snug. During winter finding the cache would be very difficult when the area is covered in snow