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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: The view from the Routeburn Flats hut — the first stop on the trail — is classic postcard imagery. Take the time to watch the sun go down behind the mountains and see the spectacular night sky emerge; the writer allows himself a moment of satisfaction, standing at the highest point on the trail (1255 metres) minutes before arriving at the Harris Saddle; the Harris emergency shelter. There is no overnighting here (unless in a crisis), but the shelter does provide a welcome comfort stop.