Last Updated: 5th Oct 2026

Beginner - Intermediate

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I've done it Done

Sealy Tarns

Stairs, stairs and more stairs... don't forget to turn around and look at the view.

Submitted by Will Antrobus

Last Updated: 5th Oct 2026

Beginner - Intermediate

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I've done it Done

Open

Grunt Factor: 15 ?

Gnarl Factor: 49 ?

5.3km

720m

720m

  

  

  

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Trail Map

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Type of Run

Front country - easily accessible

Out and Back

Mountainous

Native bush

Open ridges/tops

Run Makeup

40%
60%

Gravel / Boardwalk

Moderate Single Track

Average Uphill Gradient: +27.10%

Average Downhill Gradient: -27.10%

Garmin Course

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Trailhead

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Estimated Times to Run

2:30

Slow

1:30

Moderate

0:50

Fast

Start from White Horse Hill Campsite and follow the track signs for Sealy Tarns. Turn right at the junction, where the Kea Point track from the village meets the track from the carpark, and follow this track for ~300m before turning left onto the Sealy Tarns track.

Head up the 2200 steps to the Sealy Tarns for a well-earned break and soak in the views of Aoraki/Mount Cook, The Footstool and Kā Tiritiri o te Moana/Southern Alps.

This track is steep and can be exposed during bad weather - especially wind.

This trail includes White Horse Hill Campsite.

Available at White Horse Hill Campsite.

Paid parking available at White Horse Hill or free parking in Aoraki/Mount Cook Village.

No

Easy.

Generally good.

Waterproof leggings, Thermal leggings, Lightweight fleece top, Short-sleeved thermal top, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Windproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival blanket, Cellphone, Map, Crampons / microspikes (for winter conditions)

The information provided is a guide only. Conditions, access and hazards can change, so use your own judgement and check current local information before heading out. Make sure the route or location is suitable for your experience, fitness and equipment, and check any access restrictions or permissions that may apply.

Do you have a suggestion on where to go afterwards for the best coffee / cake / breakfast / brunch / beer?

Trail Legend

WA

Will Antrobus

has completed Sealy Tarns once in the last year.

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Overlapping Trails

These overlap with this trail to some degree. You may wish to combine them but please note that to qualify for FKTs on these runs you should record a separate activity for each.

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