Each summer, hordes of trampers traipse through Nelson Lakes National Park. In recent years, many of the tracks have become increasingly popular, even more so since the Te Araroa Trail opened, which goes right through the park. But it’s a big park, and the dedicated tramper can find places to avoid the crowds.

Mt Misery Hut is one such spot. Despite its name, the hut is perched in a fine basin on the northern end of the Mahanga Range. Unlike most huts in the park, this one is small, with just four bunks. However, acres of great rolling country, with tarns aplenty, offer excellent camping nearby.

The hut is best reached on a steep track that grunts up through beech forest from the shores of Lake Rotoroa (watch out for wasps during late summer and autumn). Near the bushline, the gradient eases, leading onto tops and a poled route to the hut. Nearby Mt Misery offers expansive views over Lake Rotoroa, Mt Cedric and the Travers Range.