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Tongariro Alpine Crossing

  1. National Park
  2. National Park State Park

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The Tongariro Alpine Crossing in Tongariro National Park is a tramping track in New Zealand, and is among the most popular day hikes in the country. The Tongariro National Park is a World Heritage site which has the distinction of dual status, as it has been acknowledged for both its natural and cultural significance.The crossing passes over the volcanic terrain of the multi-cratered active volcano Mount Tongariro, passing the eastern base of Mount Ngauruhoe which can optionally be climbed as a side trip.The full distance of the track is usually 19.4km.Walk detailsThis season Department of Conservation is expecting their highest ever visitor numbers to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and parking at both car parks is limited. Also, the road to each car park is unsealed and narrow. DOC recommend that visitors travel with licensed transport operators from either Whakapapa, National Park Village, Turangi, Taupo and Ohakune.http://www.doc.govt.nz/tongariroThe Tongariro Alpine Crossing is most commonly walked from Mangatepopo in the Ruapehu region to Ketetahi Hot Springs, due to the Mangatepopo end being higher in altitude than the Ketetahi Hot Springs end, therefore requiring less climbing. The crossing takes about seven hours of steady walking to complete in good weather, taking longer in winter or if walked from the Ketetahi end.The crossing is a linear journey, starting on the west side of Mount Tongariro and finishing on the north side. As a result, returning to the western end requires either retracing the entire 19.4 km crossing, or walking 26 km via State Highways 46 and 47 back to the other trailhead.

Address: SH 47, National Park, New Zealand
State: National Park


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Reviews
If you're into walking/hiking this is an absolute must-do!  Even if you're not into walking/hiking but have a reasonable fitness level I would recommend this due to its uniqueness and rewarding views. We parked at the Northern end and got the bus to the Western end to start.  The climb up was so interesting, with views of a varied volcanic landscape including a crater, old lava flow and volcano.  Once at the top, the panoramic views and the Emerald Lakes are breathtaking. The descent did drag a little as it's a great distance than the ascent but this didn't stop the Crossing being a highlight of our trip to New Zealand.
This hike is just under 20 km, including 1200 meters of ascent. It is classed as an alpine half marathon. The weather can change very quickly from relatively warm to very cold, especially at the top. Be prepared and take warm, waterproof clothing and gloves. Hiking poles are also a good idea for the 10 km descent. Spectacular scenery on the downhill side of the highest peak, which also includes the emerald lakes. Safe travels, Mega.
Absolutely majestic. Outer worldly landscapes. Bring plenty of water and snacks. The crossing from the drop off back to the car park was about 23km with 900m in elevation gain. The walk is not that hard but beware of the weather! Bring plenty of layers in case of cloud/rain/wind. Better be prepared than sorry and backing out. Be sure to check out the NIWA weather website from the DOC to see cloud coverage 24h in advance. Can be pretty crowded, but worth it nonetheless. Enjoy!
If you're having doubts about the difficulty of the walk, I would say I am of a moderate fitness and was very daunted but extremely glad I did it! The views were absolutely incredible, the shuttle service was really efficient I recommend going earlier rather than later as it means a very cold start but never got too hot. Take advantage of the toilets when you can, they're few and far between- especially just after the red crater, the next toilets felt worlds away! Absolutely stunning, moderately challenging walk- some really steep inclines but plenty of places to stop as much as you like and take it at your own pace! I wore walking boots and would recommend gloves of which I had none but saw people in a range of clothing from trainers to walking poles and full hiking gear! One of the best hikes I've ever done for sure...and there's a very suggestive rock formation waiting for you at the top of the red crater section...I won't ruin the surprise!
A really beautiful walk to see the bright blue crater lakes and volcanoes. I thought the flat area was like another planet -like the images of Mars. The walk takes less than a day, is really popular and the views are out of this world. I once tried doing this walk in April and we got caught in a snow storm and couldn't complete the walk. So I went back some years later in the warmer season Feb it was really hot and the most amazing walk I have ever done in New Zealand.
Easily visible track. The climb can be challenging; moderate fitness is required. Make sure to bring at least 2L per person and something against the wind, sun and rain, as there is almost no cover from the elements on a lot of the hike. Because of this, it is also essential to know when to turn back. Check the weather before you go; if it is looking bad, it is best to try again another day. Parking has a 4h limit, which is enough to get to the soda springs and back. It took my partner and I around 7 hours to hike up to the summit and back down the same way.
I recently had the opportunity to hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in New Zealand and I must say, it was an incredible experience. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves hiking and wants to explore the beautiful New Zealand landscape. The hike itself takes anywhere from 6 to 9 hours, depending on your pace. However, the stunning views and the feeling of being on a different planet make it all worth it. In my opinion, it's the best one day walk in New Zealand. When booking for transportation, I would recommend booking the earliest pickup time so you can have more time hiking, as the last pickup is at 5:30pm. Additionally, bringing a walking stick is a good idea as there is a part where you will need to slide down a slope. One important thing to note is that there are no water fountains along the way, so make sure to bring plenty of water with you. Overall, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is an unforgettable experience that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting New Zealand.
Awesome track, probably the best crossing I've ever done. Clearly marked with 2 toilet spots along the way. If you`re really fit, you can complete this track in just over 4h but 5-6h is more relaxing. Look at the weather forecast, you don`t want to be there if the view isn`t great. The views are just surreal!
100% the best one-day hike in NZ. Should take between 6-8 hours to do. Booked the shuttle with Tongariro Crossing Shuttles 5* service who pick you up from the carpark at the finish point and take you to the start walk back to your car. Make sure to bring plenty of food and water, as well as layered clothing, waterproofs and good boots or walking shoes. The weather can be very different on the top, check forecasts before going! I loved the hike, can't wait to go again
5 Stars for sceneries NOT Beginners or Novices Prepare for your knees and entire leg to suffer for couple of days if you wish to proceed. Please bring along hiking poles as it helps during descending.
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