Ruapehu’s greatest hits – five fantastic day hikes to do this summer
With Tongariro National Park and Whanganui National Park at its doorstep, Ruapehu is a region brimming with world-class hikes in the most diverse outdoor playground you can imagine. From dramatic volcanic landscapes, ancient lava flows to alpine valleys, sacred rivers and mountain streams, this natural wonderland is made for off the beaten track explorers who seek authentic, immersive travels to truly connect to people and place. So grab your gear, family or friends and find out why Ruapehu reigns supreme as the Central North Island’s ultimate hiking holiday destination.
- Tama Lakes
A spectacular alternative to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, the Tama Lakes Track is a 17.6 km return day hike that journeys through otherworldly alpine and volcanic landscapes. An extension of the Taranaki Falls Track, the Tama Lakes Track begins in Whakapapa Village just 100m from the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre. Lower in elevation with less uphill walking and exposure to alpine conditions, the Tama Lakes Track will take you through a stunning exploration of Tongariro National Park with phenomenal views of Mt Ngāuruhoe and Mt Ruapehu as well as the glistening lower and upper Tama Lakes.
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Renowned as one of the world’s best one day hikes, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a bucket list contender that’s so incredible you’ll want to come back and do this once in a lifetime experience again. Trek 19.4 km of raw, rugged, magnificent terrain of Tongariro National Park – a UNESCO Dual World Heritage Site of natural and cultural significance and NZ’s oldest national park. In this environment, you can never underestimate the elements so it’s important to plan for your hike by bringing the right gear, checking the weather, letting someone know your plans, or better yet, going with a local guide who can also organise accommodation, track transport, and meals, so you can enjoy the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to the max.
- Tupapakurua Falls
An absolute hidden gem in the Erua Forest Conservation Area, the Tupapakurua Falls Track is an 11 km return tramp situated in National Park Village. Enter a lush green landscape of native bush with an incredible variety of plant and tree species including tawa, rimu, miro and totara creating a haven full of birdlife and melodic birdsong as you arrive to the first lookout point with beautiful views of Mt Taranaki and Mt Ruapehu. You’ll also discover a local community initiative in place called Helping Hands which allows visitors to actively help maintain the track by carrying buckets of gravel to key stations along the way. Descend to the Tupapakurua Falls Lookout and enjoy panoramic views of the cascading falls in all its glory.
- Taranaki Falls
With two national parks side by side, it’s no wonder Ruapehu is a region full of enchanting waterfalls. The ever-popular Taranaki Falls Track is located in the heart of Whakapapa Village on State Highway 48 in Tongariro National Park. This short day hike is an easy 6 km loop walking track and offers a spectacular variety of terrain and landscapes as you wander through beech forest, alpine shrublands, mountain streams, flowing red tussock and ancient lava flow. Soak up the views of the iconic peaks of Mt Ngāuruhoe, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ruapehu before arriving at the base of captivating Taranaki Falls as it cascades 20 m over the edge of a large lava flow.
- Waitonga Falls
Located in the charming mountain town of Ohakune, also known as NZ’s carrot capital, the Waitonga Falls Track begins 11 km up Ohakune Mountain Road. An easy 4 km return via the same track, you’ll wind your way through mountain beech, kaikawaka forest and alpine wetlands, and on a clear day, enjoy majestic views of Mt Ruapehu. The 39 m Waitonga Falls is Tongariro National Park’s highest waterfall and is also a favourite amongst the local community.
Where to stay
From adventure lodges to riverside chalets and mountainside chateaus, Ruapehu has a fantastic variety of glorious, gorgeous accommodation options that will woo you to stay an extra night or two. Weave your way through cosy alpine villages and charming mountain towns as you journey along the Adventure Highway from Taumarunui, National Park Village, Whakapapa Village, Ohakune to Waiouru. Waking up with the mountains at your doorstep or the river running by is the perfect inspiration for exploring the great outdoors. With many accommodation operators offering special summer packages, it’s the perfect time to grab a deal to stay and play in Ruapehu this summer.
Where to eat, drink and be merry
Active holidays mean you get to fuel up on the good stuff and indulge in a few treats as well. There’s no shortage of fantastic food and beverage to enjoy in Ruapehu where you can dine at a meadery and brewery, enjoy world-famous chocolate eclairs, Devonshire tea in a 5-star garden of national significance, fantastic food trucks, boutique bakeries, bakehouses, tantalising toasties and even picnic with alpacas.
Safety in our great outdoors
The weather in Tongariro National Park is changeable all year round so it’s best to prepare and pack for all weather conditions. It’s important to let someone know of your plans, check for any alerts from the Department of Conservation’s website and download the free Plan my Walk app developed by the NZ Mountain Safety Council. You can learn more about it at: https://www.mountainsafety.org.nz/about-plan-my-walk/
Call to action:
Start planning for an unforgettable Ruapehu summer at www.visitruapehu.com
