New Zealand Brewster Hut Ridgeline

The hike to Brewster Hut is a short but demanding alpine climb through lush beech forest, crossing swing bridges before ascending steeply to a ridge overlooking the Haast Valley. That ridge is the first opening to the views which is nothing short but stunning.

Classic composition. Try to hit the highlights correctly since they can burn out quite fast here in harsh daylight conditions.

The trail starts at the Fantail Falls car park on State Highway 6 along Haast Pass, approximately one hour north of Wānaka. The hike to the hut is 5.5 km (3.4 mi) return, takes 4–6 hours return (or 2–3 hours one way), and involves around 1,000 m (3,280 ft) of elevation gain, making it a strenuous but rewarding backcountry hike.