The world-renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing is described by many as the best one-day walk in New Zealand. This amazing 17 km walk will take you through a fascinating lunar-lake landscape full of active volcanoes, mountain springs, craters, lava flows, volcanic desert and emerald crater lakes. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing track winds up the Mangatepopo Valley to the saddle between Mt Tongariro and Mt Nagauruhoe. It climbs to Red Crater (1886m), then drops down to the Emerald and Blue Lakes. The track then descends around the northern slope of Tongariro, meandering to the Ketetahi Hut.
The full walk is moderately challenging and it will take the average person about 8-9 hours to complete, allowing time for photos and sidetracks. Taking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a real adventure and an experience not to be missed! We can arrange transport directly from the lodge.
Make sure you are well prepared when you go on this adventure with:
- Plenty of water/fluids
- Food plus extra for 24 hrs.
- Waterproof clothing
- Good walking boots
- First aid kit
- Warm clothing polypropylene
- Woollen hat and gloves
- Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
- Walking stick if required
- Cell phone
- Your camera!
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a real must do for anyone that enjoys beautiful scenery and a bit of a challenge. Thousands of people do it every summer. It can be done in winter too, but then it is only recommended for highly experienced mountain hikers.
There are two departure times from The Crossing Backpackers:
We recommend you get the earlier time if you wish to walk to the summit of Mt Ngauruhoe (Mt Doom)
Pick up times are:
This will drop you back at The Crossing Backpackers at approximately 4.30pm.
The Crossing Backpackers has plenty of secured car parking, you are welcome to leave your vehicle here whilst you expereince the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Be prepared for anything as the weather in the Tongariro National Park can be extremely changeable. In the summer months, you can expect temperatures from 5 C to 35 C and in winter, from about -10 C to 10 C.
