Howell’s Hut Elevation / Altitude: 5,188 m above sea level.
Howell’s Hut, perched atop Nelion, one of the prominent peaks of Mount Kenya, is a remarkable testament to human ingenuity and determination in the face of extreme conditions. Despite its diminutive size, this micro-lodge provides a welcome refuge for climbers braving the harsh environment at an altitude of 17,000 feet.
Constructed with care and precision, Howell’s Hut is surprisingly well-insulated, offering a toasty warm shelter for up to four climbers squeezed snugly inside. Situated amidst the breathtaking landscape of the U-shaped Gorges Valley and overlooking Lake Michelson, the hut provides a serene sanctuary amidst the rugged terrain of Mount Kenya.
The brainchild of Ian Howell, a renowned explorer and one of Mount Kenya’s leading figures, Howell’s Hut stands as a testament to his vision and determination. Built in February 1970, the hut’s construction was no small feat. The corrugated iron sheets used in its construction were air-dropped onto the Lewis Glacier by helicopter, where Howell painstakingly transported them to the summit over the course of thirteen solo ascents.
Describing the building process, Ian Howell recounted, “The hut was officially finished on February 11th, 1970. It was originally built in my garden in Isiolo, and I probably started work on that about six months earlier. Then the Kenya Police Airwing airdropped it in five loads, each with its own parachute, onto the Lewis Glacier at the beginning of January 1970. It took me until February 11th to carry all the sections up to the top of Nelion and bolt them together. Mostly I did this on my own, and after about two weeks, I felt I needed a change, so went down to the coast for a few days and just rested, swam, and drank Tasker until I felt like going back to finish it, which I did.”
Reaching Howell’s Hut requires navigating a series of short traverses and steep corners, ascending approximately 100 meters until the squat, silvery figure of the hut comes into view. Despite its modest size, Howell’s Hut serves as a beacon of hope and respite for climbers venturing into the challenging heights of Mount Kenya, offering a brief but welcome reprieve from the elements.
