Often called New Zealand’s greatest day walk, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a challenging hike through an amazing volcanic landscape.
For the latest updates on access to Tongariro National Park, make sure to check the Department of Conservation’s Tongariro Facebook page for current information.
Track Overview
- Length: 19.8 km
- Elevation gain: 843 m
- Route type: Point to point
- Dogs: No
You can hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in either direction, but most people start from Mangatepopo Valley and finish at Ketetahi. Along the way, you’ll pass through amazing volcanic landscapes, craters, and lakes.
Mangatepopo Valley
Starting at Mangatepopo Valley, near Whakapapa, the trail follows a stream and runs alongside ancient lava flows. Keep an eye out for different types of plants, which give clues about how old the surrounding lava rocks are.
South Crater
As you leave the valley, the trail gets steeper, leading up to Mangatepopo Saddle, a spot between the mountains of Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. From here, you’ll get breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape. On a clear day, you might even spot Taranaki Maunga in the distance!
Red Crater
Next, you’ll climb up to the Red Crater, the highest point on the crossing. You might smell sulfur here, reminding you that the crater is still active.
Emerald Lakes
After Red Crater, you’ll head down toward the beautiful Emerald Lakes, one of the highlights of the hike. The lakes get their bright green color from minerals in the ground, and they make a perfect place to stop for photos.
Ketetahi End
The trail then crosses Central Crater, passes by the Blue Lake, and circles around North Crater. The last section is a long downhill walk, where the scenery changes from volcanic rock to the cool, green forests near the Ketetahi Road end. The lush forest at the end is a refreshing sight after the rugged volcanic terrain.
Plan Your Trip
Things You Need for Your Tongariro Alpine Crossing Hike
Tongariro National Park can have unpredictable weather, especially in winter, so it’s important to bring the right gear. Conditions can change anytime so always be prepared.
Booking Your Hike
You need to book your visit to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in advance through the Department of Conservation (DOC). There’s no cost or limit to the number of bookings for the 2024/2025 season, but it’s important to book if you’re using shuttles, going on guided walks, or accessing any part of the track. This includes:
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing full and part track users
- Te Araroa walkers
- Soda Springs tracks users
- Tongariro Northern Circuit runners
- Mangatepopo Hut Day visitors
- Climbers
- Tramping clubs
- School groups
If you already have a booking for the Tongariro Northern Circuit hut or campsite, you don’t need to book again. You can book online through the DOC website, at a DOC visitor center, or with a walking guide or shuttle service. Don’t forget to book your shuttle as parking is limited with a four-hour time limit from mid-October to April.
What to Pack
Make sure to bring the following essentials for your hike:
- Food and water: You’ll need plenty of fluids, especially in summer. If you plan to hike a summit, pack extra water.
- Raincoat and waterproof pants: These should be wind-proof and waterproof.
- Strong boots: You’ll be walking on uneven volcanic terrain, so sturdy boots are a must.
- Warm layers: Pack wool or thermal clothing and a fleece for warmth.
- Hat and gloves
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- First aid kit
- Map
- Cell phone
The weather at the start of the hike can be different from the higher parts of the trail, so be ready to adjust your plans. If the weather gets too bad or the wind is strong, be prepared to turn back for safety.
Transport
Shuttles
The Department of Conservation (DOC) recommends that visitors hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing book a shuttle or arrange for someone to drop them off and pick them up. The hike takes about 7-8 hours, and it ends on the other side of the mountain, making it hard to return to where you started.
Shuttles run between the park and nearby towns like Whakapapa Village, Ohakune, Taumarunui, Tūrangi, and Taupō. You can book a shuttle online or at a local visitor center. Some hotels and lodges can also help you arrange shuttle services.
Driving
If you prefer to drive, the park is near several alpine towns. The main entrance is at Whakapapa Village, west of the park and close to the Whakapapa Ski Field. The town of Ohakune is south of the park, near Tūroa Ski Field. Parking at Mangatepopo and Ketetahi is limited, and spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are also 4-hour parking limits, and rangers monitor these from Labour Weekend (October) to May each year.
Flying
The closest airport to Tongariro National Park is in Taupō, about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Whakapapa Village.
Be Ready for Changing Weather
The weather on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing can change fast, and sometimes it can get really extreme, especially in the mountains. It’s important to be prepared for any kind of weather.
Make sure to pack everything on the Essentials List so you know what to take and wear for your hike.
If you’re hiking in winter, you’ll need extra gear like crampons and ice axes. Be sure to check the Winter Experience section if you’re planning a winter hike.
Always check the weather forecast before your trip. You can visit the NIWA website for weather updates. There’s a specific forecast for Tongariro National Park, so make sure to check that!
Safety on the Track
Before starting your hike, visit the Department of Conservation Visitor Centre to get the latest updates on weather, volcanic activity, and track conditions. You can also check the Tongariro National Park weather forecast on NIWA’s website, as well as the NZ Avalanche Advisory report and volcanic risk report.
In winter, the trail is covered in snow and ice, so it’s highly recommended to take a guided trip with qualified operators like Tongariro Guided Walks, Adrift Tongariro, or Adventure Outdoors for a safer experience.
Always stay informed about Tongariro’s volcanic activity and check the latest Volcanic Alerts before your hike.
Be Prepared
Here are some important tips to remember for your Tongariro Alpine Crossing adventure:
- Fill out an intention form at the Department of Conservation Visitor Centre if you’re planning to stay overnight in a hiker’s hut.
- Always pack sunscreen and sunglasses, whether it’s summer or winter.
- Make sure to wear proper clothing and bring all the necessary gear.
- When packing, be ready for any kind of weather, as conditions can change quickly.
- Follow the Land Safety Code and take the Tiaki Promise to help care for New Zealand, protecting its treasures for future generations.
Where to Stay
There are plenty of places to stay near the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Popular spots include National Park Village and Whakapapa Village, where you’ll find accommodations ranging from campsites to lodges. These are great places to rest before or after your hike and are close to shuttle services for the crossing.
You can also find places to stay in nearby towns like Tūrangi, Ohakune, and Taupō, which offer a variety of options including hotels, hostels, and holiday parks. Many accommodations in these areas can help you book shuttle services for your hike.
FAQ
Q: Can I hike the crossing in winter?
Yes, but you’ll need special gear like crampons and ice axes, and it’s best to go with a guide.
Q: Can you wear sneakers on Tongariro Crossing?
Please avoid wearing runners or sneakers on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, especially in snowy conditions, as the trail can become slippery.
Q: Does it cost money to hike the Tongariro Crossing?
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is free to walk, but you will need to pay for parking and shuttle services.
