11 October 2026
Showers, becoming few and far between in the afternoon, then clearing to fine in the evening.
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1 / 55Nelson Lakes National Park
Angelus Hut via Pinchgut Track and Robert Ridge Route
The most popular route to Angelus Hut in fine weather.
Distance
12.2 km
Walking time
6 hr
Difficulty
Advanced, Expert
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
No firewood at Angelus Hut
Outdoor alert
Outdoor alert
No firewood at Angelus Hut
No firewood at Angelus Hut
No firewood at Angelus Hut
Damaged foot-bridge south of Cascade Track
No firewood at Angelus Hut
Weather outlook
Nelson Lakes National Park forecast
Issued 11 Oct 2026, 7:33 am
12 October 2026
Fine, but becoming overcast in the evening.
13 October 2026
Showers developing in the morning.
14 October 2026
Showers turning to heavy rain. Snow lowering to 1700 metres.
15 October 2026
Showers.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Angelus Hut via Pinchgut Track and Robert Ridge Route on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Angelus Hut via Pinchgut Track and Robert Ridge Route
From Mt Robert car park, zigzag up Pinchgut Track up to Relax Shelter which is just above the bush line and a good decision point for assessing the weather conditions further up the ridge. Soon afterwards, the track comes to a junction with Paddys Track. Continue straight ahead to continue or take a left here to reach Bushline Hut if the weather isn’t looking good. A great alternative for a three-day tramp is to take Paddy’s track up to Bushline Hut for the first night, and then continue to Robert Ridge the next morning. The route then follows a wide ridge which you’ll travel along quickly to Julius Summit (1794 m). From here the route has some sharp and rocky sections. Take care here in cold conditions as accidents frequently occur. It also takes most walkers longer than expected. Once you reach the junction with the Speargrass Creek Route, it’s only 30 min down to Angelus Hut. Follow the poles down to the lake and hut. There is no water along the route so remember to carry your own. Be prepared for snow and ice during winter and spring. Robert Ridge is very exposed and is subject to high winds and poor visibility at any time of year.
Essential information for Angelus Hut via Pinchgut Track and Robert Ridge Route
From November to April There are many wasps in the area, especially from January to April. Consider carrying an antihistamine product and, if you are allergic to stings, ensure you bring your medication. Sandflies can also be a nuisance, especially near the lake, tarns and creeks. Cover up and use insect repellent. From May to October Additional hazards are present on all routes including snow and ice, avalanche risk and sub-zero temperatures. Hut facilities are reduced – water and firewood may not be available.
Huts and campsites
Angelus Hut (opens in browser) is a serviced hut with 28 bunks, heating, double glazing, a rain collection tank and long drop toilet. There is also space for camping outside the hut. Bookings are required all year. Bushline Hut (opens in browser) is a serviced hut with 14 bunks, heating, a rain collection tank and long drop toilet. There is also space for camping outside the hut. Bookings are required all year. There are also huts along the other tracks to Angelus, which are recommended as a first night destination to break up the tramp into 3 days.
Getting there for Angelus Hut via Pinchgut Track and Robert Ridge Route
The track starts from Mount Robert carpark. From St Arnaud, follow SH 63 west for 2 km, then turn into Mount Robert Road. Follow this for 4.9 km to the car park at the end. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel
Dog access for Angelus Hut via Pinchgut Track and Robert Ridge Route
No dogs.
Before you walk Angelus Hut via Pinchgut Track and Robert Ridge Route
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.