Mt Cedric Track

Overview

This is the committing alpine link between Sabine Hut on Lake Rotoroa and Rotomaninitua/Lake Angelus. Expect a tough climb through beech forest, then open tussock and rocky tops with big, airy views. The route drops into the Angelus Basin to finish at Angelus Hut beside the lake, perched around 1,650 m. Distance is roughly 4.2 miles one way via the Mt Cedric ridge; plan your logistics for a point‑to‑point hut‑to‑hut journey rather than a simple out‑and‑back.

What You’ll See

Below the bushline it’s steep and rooty; above it, you’re on an exposed ridge with sweeping looks over Lake Rotoroa and surrounding peaks. The descent toward the basin crosses rocky, bouldery ground. Angelus Hut sits by a jewel of a tarn lake; from May to October the lake often freezes, and on clear nights you can get mirror‑calm reflections of the stars.

Difficulty and Commitment

This is a serious tramping route: very steep in the forest, exposed on the tops, and rough underfoot in places. Typical travel in good summer conditions is about 5–6 hours one way, but in winter or heavy snow it can take up to 9 hours. Strong navigation is essential when cloud or snow hides poles and markers, and you must be comfortable on alpine terrain.

Best Time to Hike

November–April offers the friendliest window, though rapid weather changes can hit any time—pack for warm, cold, wet, or windy. Summer brings sandflies, and wasps are common from January to April. May–October is full winter here: expect snow and ice, avalanche terrain, sub‑zero temps, and limited daylight. Only parties with proven alpine skills and equipment should attempt it then.

Tips and Logistics

Carry enough water and be ready to treat what you collect; there’s no hut plumbing in winter. Bring a gas cooker, warm layers, waterproofs, hat and gloves, and a head torch with spares. In winter/icy conditions add crampons and ice axe (and know how to use them), plus avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel. A PLB is smart year‑round. Mobile reception is very limited (generally only patches on nearby ridges). Bookings are required if you plan to stay at Angelus Hut. In deep winter snow, you may need to dig to the hut entrance and expect a very cold interior.

Worth It?

If you’re after a big, rewarding alpine ridge day to a classic backcountry hut, this is a superb choice—on a good forecast. If you’d rather avoid the steep grunt and exposure, consider another approach to Angelus Basin; otherwise, pick your weather window and go prepared.