For a demanding overnight hike with some decent altitude near Queenstown, look no further than Mt Larkins.

The magic of this summit is not only in its 2300m height and outstanding panoramic views, but for the fact that the way up from Heather Jock Hut is not signposted and therefore off the beaten track.

Heather Jock Hut is reached on the Mt Judah Track, an old mining trail that passes the Glenorchy Scheelite Battery and other historic mining huts for day use only. Heather Jock sleeps three and there is information in the hut on the best route up Mt Larkins.

It’s fairly simple: climb onto the ridge above the hut and follow this to the summit of Mt Alaska, 1965m. Cairns then mark the way over three spot heights, the last of which, Pt1912, sits near the base of the final climb to Mt Larkins. The circular six bunk Kelly Hut (private – see www.mountainhut.nz for booking details) is near here, too.

From here, a small ridge leads to Pt2238, but you can also climb the northern scree slope to the summit of Mt Larkins.  

The views are expansive as you get closer to the summit, with Lake Wakatipu, Mt Earnslaw, Mt Tutoko and many more peaks visible.