Highlights include stunning native bush with views of the Tongariro River below.
These easy short walks starting from the Urchin campsite will each take you 20 - 30 minutes.
The tracks begin at the Urchin campsite which is located 3km along Kaimanawa Road. Kaimanawa Road is off SH1, 15 km south of Turangi.
Kaimanawa Forest Loop Walk
A gently sloping, easy walk through beautiful native bush. There is a notable variety of forest types to be found on this short walk.
| Distance | 1.1km |
| Time | 20 minutes |
| Physical rating | Easy |
| Direction | Loop |
| Dog access | Dogs with a DOC permit only. Contact the Turangi DOC office to obtain a permit |
Urchin Campsite to Pillars of Hercules
A pleasant walk through kamahi forest with views of the Tongariro River below. Return via same track, or along the road.
The Pillars of Hercules:This deep gorge has a complex history of formation. The river has eroded a narrow channel through ancient lava flows (350,000 years and older) of andesite and ignimbrite rock.
You can view the spectacular ravine from a 40 m long suspension bridge, which you can reach via the walking track, or alternatively from the car park 2 km along Kaimanawa Road.
This feature is even more spectacular from the air as the Tongariro River can be seen to suddenly narrow as it passes through this chasm.
| Distance | 1.5km |
| Time | 30 minutes (one way) |
| Physical rating | Easy |
| Direction | Return via same track |
| Dog access | Dogs with a DOC permit only. Contact the Turangi DOC office to obtain a permit |
