The track to Brewster Hut in Mount Aspiring National Park is a steep and challenging 3.4 mile out and back trail that gains just over 3,000 feet of elevation, but is a rewarding route to one of the most spectacular backcountry huts in New Zealand with access to the Brewster Glacier.
This route starts at the Fantail Falls carpark, a beautiful waterfall worth a stop in itself. The track begins with a river crossing of the Haast River that would be very challenging following heavy rain. The trail then becomes a very steep climb with many roots and rocks to Brewster Hut. As hikers near the hut, the trail traverses a narrow ridgeline not recommended during inclement weather. This section of the hike offers spectacular views of Mount Aspiring National Park and many wildlife sightings such as kea birds that often perch by the hut.
Brewster Hut is a 12-bunk hut with provided mattresses and water. As of 2020, the cost is $20 per night via backcountry hut ticket for adults and $10 per night for youth ages 11-17 with a $10 service fee, which can be purchased at visitor centers and shops across New Zealand. Bookings are required for this hut from December 1st to April 30th and are not required in the offseason but fees still apply. With the steep and fragile alpine environment around Brewster Hut, primitive camping is not recommended.
On a clear day with good weather, hikers can climb an additional 2,000 feet to summit Mount Armstrong at 6,299 feet, or follow an unmarked trail to access the Brewster Glacier. This 2-3 hour additional journey is not recommended for inexperienced hikers. For those not wishing to add this onto the journey, a partial climb up the bush and rocks behind the hut still offers great views.
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