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The Tongariro Alpine Crossing |  Everything You Need To Know Before Tackling The Summit

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The stunning blue lakes of Ruapehu on the Tongariro alpine crossing.

We all know New Zealand is pretty spectacular. With heaps of hikes and outdoor activities at your doorstep, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing your next adventure. 

If you're looking for something pretty spesh to add to your hiking list, then head to the Tongariro National Park to take on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. The 19.4km day trek is one of New Zealand's most popular hikes and is home to vast volcanic landscapes, crystal blue lakes, and stunning 360-degree views. 

The Tongariro National Park is the oldest of the 13 national parks in New Zealand and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of the park’s Māori cultural and spiritual foundations. So it's pretty magical, to say the least. 

Ready for your next big adventure? Lace up and book your spot pronto, but before you do, check out everything you need to know before tackling the Tongariro Crossing. 

The Tongariro Crossing Low Down

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike is located in the Tongariro National Park and is home to stunning alpine landscapes and magnificent views, so it’s no wonder it’s deemed the best single-day hike in New Zealand.

This 19.4km hike takes you up and over the Tongariro summit and is quite the climb, an 1886-metre climb to be exact—but the views from the top are worth it. The Department Of Conservation states the tramp will take you between six to nine hours and is ranked as intermediate. 

This one-day tramp is part of the Tongariro Northern Circuit, which is a three to four-day hike that starts and finishes in the same place and is one of New Zealand's great walks.

Someone gazes over the blue lakes.Unlike the northern circuit, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing isn’t a loop track so requires a shuttle to drop you off at the start point and pick you up when you finish. 

You can walk the track in either direction, but the most popular option starts at Mangatepopo Valley as starting from Ketetahi could add an extra hour to your walk. 

Day or night Tongariro has got something for all—you can even book a sunrise-guided tour, where you can watch the sunrise at Red Crater and enjoy breakfast alfresco. Absolute bliss.

Getting To The Tongariro Crossing  

As we mentioned, as there is very limited parking near the track, getting to and from the Tongariro Alpine Crossing requires a shuttle bus. You can book a return shuttle from any of the local towns.

Check out the DOC site for a full list of shuttle services here. For peace of mind, we’d recommend booking this in advance during peak season.  

When To Hike The Tongariro Crossing 

The best time to hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is between November to May as weather conditions are better.

June to late October is winter and conditions become very challenging, the track remains open but is only recommended to those hikers with specialist alpine skills and experience tackling wintery terrain—think snow, ice, sub-zero temperatures, and high risk of avalanche.

If this sounds like a bit of you and you're up for the challenge, then we'd recommend booking a guided tour in the winter, just to be on the safe side. 

The rugged terrain on the Tongariro Crossing.What You'll Need For The Tongariro Crossing

If you’re a regular hiker then you’ll know sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are a must on any tramp as well as a comfy backpack. As you’ll be carrying your bag for six to nine hours, be sure to only carry the essentials with you.

Bring plenty of food to fuel your 19.4km hike—think protein bars, bananas, chips, sarnies— basically, carbs will be your bezzie mate on this trip.

From personal experience, sour lollies go a long way as well as a sweet treat as a reward for when you reach the top. As there are no drinking water supplies on the mountain, you’ll need to bring drinking water for the day (two to three litres). 

Be sure to pack a rubbish bag as there are also no bins on the track so you’ll need to carry all empty packaging back with you.

Alpine weather can be pretty hormonal, so when it comes to clothes, it’s best to pack for all seasons. This includes a waterproof jacket, warm layers, a beanie, a sun hat, gloves, and a small first aid kit. Check out the DOC site for a full list of day hike essentials.   

There are several long drop toilets along the track, but toilet roll isn’t guaranteed so a roll will come in handy.

Someone uses hand holds to cross the Tongariro Crossing.What To Expect On The Tongariro Crossing

Without giving too much away, you can expect stunning natural beauty at its finest. It's a picturesque haven waiting to be explored. 

Expect six to nine hours of solid hiking across a volcanic landscape, made up of steaming vents, glacial valleys, ancient lava flows, and vivid crater lakes. 

Be prepared, there is a section on the track called 'Devil's Staircase'—a 1400 to 1600 metre climb above sea level comprising 370 steps—as well as ‘The Red Crater’, which is the highest point of the track.

Although this may be challenging the views are certainly worth the climb. Expect spectacular views over the Oturere Valley, Rangipo Desert, Kaimanawa Ranges and your first peek at the famous Emerald Lakes. 

Places To Refuel Near The Tongariro Crossing

Hiking 19.4km is no easy feat, so you’ll want to recoup and refuel with some well-deserved grub and a celebratory brewski or two.

Head to Taupō as you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to delicious restaurants. From cheap eats to fancy dining, sit back, relax and celebrate with a plate full of goodness. For some inspo, we’ve rounded up the best restaurants in Taupō for you to dig into.

Where To Stay Near The Tongariro Crossing

A good night's sleep is crucial for hiking, so be sure to book accommodation where you can get plenty of Z’s before the big day.

The National Park Village is only a 20-minute drive to the start of the track and has heaps of cosy cabins to suit every budget.

The Tongariro Crossing Lodge with snow-capped mountains seen behind.Treat yourself to a night's stay at the Tongariro Crossing Lodge, a stunning lodge with lush landscapes, mountain views, and an in-room continental-style breakfast. Hell yes! 

After a hard day of hiking, you’re going to need somewhere to rest your head. Taupo is an hour's drive from the Tongariro Crossing and is home to great hotels, motels and Airbnb options to suit whatever you're after.

If you're staying in Taupō before or after your big adventure and need some accommodation inspo, then check out the Best Accommodation In Taupo

If you prefer to be at one with nature then there are plenty of camping options on route such as the Mangahuia Campsite, a DOC site on the edge of the Tongariro National Park.

Swap camping for glamping and treat yourself to a boujee glamping getaway at the end of your trip at this stunning large hillside dome. Go on, you deserve it. 

Other Walks Near Tongariro National Park

The National Park has over 25 inspiring walks, so there's something to suit everyone. Another epic one-day walk is Tama Lakes, this trek is 17.6km and has equally stunning views as the Tongariro Crossing without all the uphill work. Tama Lakes is home to six explosion craters, created around 10,000 years ago during an eruption period.

If you're looking for something truly thrilling then add the Tongariro Northern Circuit to the top of your hiking list. The 44.9km multi-day hike is one of New Zealand's Great Walks. 

If you're looking for a shorter trek, the Taranaki Falls Walk is perfect. It's a 6km loop track that takes you through alpine shrublands and beech forest, passing streams and waterfalls. Check out the DOC site for more walking inspo in the National Park.

Keen for kick ons? Here's everything you need to know before tackling the Tongariro Northern Circuit.

Image credit: Tongariro by Laura Smetsers, Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Ruapehu by Graeme Murray, Tongariro by Tomáš Malík, Tongariro Alpine Crossing by Ian Patel, Tongariro Crossing Lodge.

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