Please note: Tongariro Alpine Crossing and other tracks across Tongariro National Park has reopened. Read the latest DOC update and track information here.
Please note: Tongariro Alpine Crossing and other tracks across Tongariro National Park has reopened. Read the latest DOC update and track information here.
Nothing brings you closer to Taupo’s unforgettable wilderness than walking through it.
Taupo’s untouched ancient forests and swamplands, impressive geothermal wonderlands, and breath-taking volcanoes are crisscrossed with excellent walking and hiking tracks of all lengths and levels of difficulty. From pleasant lakefront and riverside strolls like the Great Lake Walkway and Huka Falls trails, through to the Tongariro River Trail and Lake Rotopounamu native bush walks ringing with birdsong, to the epic full-day alpine trek known as the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, which treks across a cratered volcanic moonscape dotted with gemstone-coloured lakes.
Thermal walkways at Craters of the Moon and Orakei Korako expose the power and mystery of the earth’s inner workings in the strange and wonderful landscapes of Taupo’s geothermal areas, and walks in the Pureora Forest Park take you deep into a magical and ancient world of moss covered trees, crystal-clear rivers and melodious birdsong.
Taupo has some of the best walking tracks in New Zealand, all just awaiting the addition of your boot-prints.
Explore them below, then start planning your walk with New Zealand Mountain Safety Council's Plan My Walk app. An awesome app that provides you with useful information on each track with active alerts, the weather forecast, and the essential gear to bring. Click here to check it out
Taranaki Falls is a short easy walk in the UNESCO dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park.
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A rewarding alpine day hike with stunning views of the Tama Lakes, Taranaki Falls, and the volcanic peaks of Ruapehu and Ngāuruhoe. A great alternative to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing - slightly shorter, less demanding, and just as scenic.
Whether you want to hike it, bike it, taste it or just go see it Adventure Shuttles helps you get the buzz in the beautiful Central North Island.
Backyard Tours transport services customers from Turangi to hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing return. Door to door pickups and drops. Cultural insights, safety briefings, & sharing of local stories along your travels making memorable connections.
Approx 1 hour self-guided or guided walk, through a landscape of wonder and cultural richness, weaving together geothermal features, ancient traditions, and modern innovation. Bookings for guides are essential.
Spa Thermal Park is home of the famous Otumuheke Stream hot pools. From here, you can also explore the Huka scenic walking trails and the Rotary Ride mountain bike trail.
Walk through ancient forest, experience spectacular lake vistas, and enjoy constant birdsong on a variety of walks on the southwestern shores of Lake Taupo.
Discover the Waihaha section of the Great Lake Trails made up of two interconnected trails: the Waihaha Link and the Waihora Link. The Taupō region’s supervolcanic nature is on full display with towering volcanic rock cliffs, breathtaking vistas, and a secluded waterfall nestled within the Waihaha Valley.
This easy walk winds through native bush along the lake edge, offering fantastic views and great picnic, swimming and fishing spots. It's perfect for families and those wanting to enjoy Lake Taupo.
