Along the trail, you have the option to climb 2 mountains, Mt Ngauruhoe (hard) which will take an extra 3 hours, and Mt Tongariro (moderate) which will add 1 hour extra. The weather varies significantly on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, it can change quickly in the space of a few hours but also settles into different patterns depending on the season. anything you take with you must return with you: rubbish, bottles, and yourself, obviously. At a comfortable speed with plenty of stops for photos (or resting – we are not judging), it takes between 7-8 hours to complete. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is, quite frankly, one of the best things you can do in New Zealand. Blue Lake to … A portion of your transport costs contributes to the maintenance of the Park for your enjoyment and future preservation. Tongariro Crossing Hike Trail Notes. The “Crossing” (as it is more commonly known) reaches a peak of 1,886m / 6,187ft at the stunning Red Crater. Then it’s a gradual descent back down as long as you stick to the track. On your trek, you will be greeted with incredible blue/green … The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a 19.4 km hike, estimated to take between six and eight hours. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a one-way 19.4 trail. When you’re feeling relaxed and ready to eat, head to our on-site Spiral Restaurant and Bar where you can refuel with a delicious, fresh meal. Depending on the service you choose, the shuttle will collect you from the lodge or from a departure point a short walk from the lodge. Keep reading for more details below. During this post, we run through what to expect with the different seasons and when the best times to hike the Crossing are. If not, you’ll want proof that … Side trips. Tip: If you still have energy to spare, there is a side … Tongariro Alpine Crossing Winter Brochure; FAQ’s; Our National Park; Contact Us; Find Us; Book Now! The hike climbs through volcanic terrain, walking through giant caldera and lava fields. The active volcanic mountains Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro are located in the centre of … Soda Springs: 15-minute side trip from the head of Mangatepopo Valley, where you will find an oasis for the moisture-loving, yellow buttercups and white foxgloves. Shuttles depart from 6 stops in National Park Village, including the new transport hub at the railway station. We offer 5 departures daily to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. A winter Tongariro Alpine Crossing is an experience like no other - as long you know what you’re doing or are with someone who does!” To stay safe on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in winter, book a guided walk with one of our locally owned and operated companies below: Adrift Outdoors Phone: 0800 462 374; Adventure Outdoors Phone: 0800 386 925; They will provide everything you need - expert guidance, … In this article I will share my practical tips for visiting the Tongariro Crossing and the nearby village Turangi. You will start at the Mangatepopo Carpark and after 6 to 8 hours you will arrive on the otherside at the Ketitahi Carpark. How the weather changes with the terrain. Book Now. … What is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing? Getting there At an average walking pace the track would take 5 to 6 hours hiking non stop. Things to Know Before Hiking the Tongariro Crossing. The Crossing. 19km of track which climbs variably from 1100 metres at the start to 2000 at the highest and then back to about 1100 metres for … The track is long, often steep, and full of loose rock. Appreciation … From October through to April it is generally safe to complete the hike without a guide depending on weather … Keep up to date with the latest Tongariro Weather Forecast or plan in advance with the long term Metservice forecast online now. This post is Part 2 of a two-post Tongariro Alpine Crossing Guide which aims to provide you with information about the Weather, Gear, … The track takes 6-9 hours to complete depending on how you approach it. Minerals leached from the surrounding rock cause the brillant emerald colour. To the right are the Emerald Lakes. Escape to Ruapehu, just half a day and a world away from our biggest cities, … We rode the Northern Express train from Auckland, stopped in Ohakune for two nights to do the Crossing, and continued on to Wellington. It starts at Mangetepopo and through the saddle between the two mountains (Tongariro and Ngauruhoe), up to a peak and then downwards through a few lakes created by craters and finally down to Ketetahi. Download Visitor Guide . I really wish I had had this information before the hike, so you’re welcome. Shuttle Options; Weather. Te Maari, Red Crater and Ngāuruhoe vents have all been active within the last 100 years – the most recent … The track winds down in zig-zag fashion with some stream crossings thrown in, all the way back to Ketetahi car park. A total sensorial experience. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a one way 12.5 mile track that cuts through the Tongariro National Park. The highest point is 1886 m above sea level and the weather on the crossing can be unpredictable. Tongariro Crossing Shuttles. It used to simply be called “Tongariro Crossing“, but was renamed in 2007 to the more-apt “Tongariro Alpine Crossing“, giving hapless tourists a clearer picture of the conditions they could expect to encounter… especially during winter! It normally takes about 2.5 to 3.5 hours to reach this point. There is a cost for transport operators due to financial commercial business operations in the Tongariro National Park through the management of the Department of Conservation. Most hikers take around 7 to 8 hours to hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing including photo breaks and lunch. Search. You’ll need nearly a full day to complete the Crossing, which starts 1 km above sea-level, and gets even higher nearer the top. They will truly feel like a home away from home. The summit of Red crater is the highest point of the Alpine Crossing (1886 metres / 6187 feet). Q1 – How hard is it? If you want to hike the Tongariro Crossing, make sure you: are fit enough to walk 20 km in mountainous/alpine circumstances, partly uphill; start early (6.30h latest) to avoid crowds, you’ll finish between 13:00h and 15:00h (about 7 … It is a point to point hike so you will need to arrange transportation to either the start or finish of the hike. HOW LONG IS THE TONGARIRO CROSSING? Taking on average 6 to 8 hours to complete, you’ll climb the Devils Staircase , pass the Mount Ngauruhoe volcano, the Red Crater, slide down to the Emerald Lakes, and so much more. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing passes through volcanic hazard zones – even when the track is open, volcanic risk is present. Keep in mind you are in an alpine environment so proper preparation is necessary (grab my hiking checklist below!) The Tongariro Crossing track follows around the edge of Central Crater then climbs up to Blue Lake (A cold acidic lake). See if you can spot Lake Taupo and Ketetahi shelter! The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a 19.4km track through the heart of the North Island’s wild alpine backcountry which traverses the mighty Mt Tongariro. Let’s get into the nitty gritty! You will then not cross another bathroom until 4 hours later on the descent to the finish line. How long does the Tongariro Crossing take? Toggle navigation +64 7 892 2688 × Contact Us. Our spacious & comfortable suites offer lots of room to relax after your Tongariro or Ruapehu adventures. The toilets at the Tongariro Crossing are “long drops” or outhouses without any amenities like toilet paper or sinks. The Tongariro Crossing is part of a larger hiking circuit, the Tongariro Northern Circuit, which takes 3-4 days and requires overnight stays in the huts. It will take between 6-9 hours to complete the hike, which doesn’t include the time spent getting to and from the carparks. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing can be walked in either direction and there are several side trips. Layered clothing I maxed out when I did the hike – it was a beautiful sunny day. And with that 6am start some 1000m up it can be cold, even in the summer. Home; Our suites; Gallery; Specials; Attractions; Our bread recipe; Tongariro Alpine Crossing; Things to do; Gift Vouchers; Best long hikes; Mt Ruapehu; Our … The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a 19.4km track through the heart of the North Island’s wild alpine backcountry which traverses the mighty Mt Tongariro. Tongariro Crossing need to know: – The Tongariro Crossing is a one way hike. However the weather can change before you can say Tongariro Alpine Crossing. I am sure there are plenty of camping and RV spots nearby to stay as well. The shuttle fares can be charged to your account with us, so there's no need to pay on the bus. Activities Galore . Tongariro Alpine Crossing DOC Website . I’m about to break down each section of the Tongariro Crossing hike and describe what the trail is like and how long it should take the average person. Great views too. Tongariro Alpine Crossing Factsheet . Words cannot do the experience justice... everytime I walk it, it is an awesome experience, just make sure you are well experienced in the New Zealand mountain areas of the outdoors and what requirmen... We … With a broad range of activities on offer, there's a whole lot in Ruapehu to experience. HOW LONG IS TONGARIRO CROSSING. At the end of a long day on the Tongariro Crossing, you’ll love to soak those tired legs in one of our outdoor hot tubs. Make sure you are well prepared to hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Book your shuttle bus now Book Now or Call Us. My wife and I did the Tongariro Crossing on February 8, 2019. You should start walking the crossing between 8-9am. The steam vents above the lake are responsible for the sulphurous smell. Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Walking the track in both directions is possible, however it is far more popular (and arguably safer) to begin from the … Take a camera or your phone. What time of year is best to hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing? We can also collect from various spots on the way, such as the Mangahuia DoC camp ground if required. Ketetahi to Mangatepopo: Allow an extra hour to walk the track in reverse. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a one-way 19.4km track. Walking a lot can result in bad blisters if you aren’t used to your shoes. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is FREE to hike, enjoy and respectfully preserve. There are side trip options for keen and fit hikers to the summits of both Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. A printable flyer contain all the information you need to know before your hike. The Tongariro Alpine crossing is a long, challenging 19.4 km (6-8 hour) trek through volcanic terrain, valleys and saddles. The trail leading back to Ketetahi carpark – the end point of Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike . 5 return times daily gives you the ultimate in flexibility to do the Tongariro Alpine Crossing at your own … Relaxing outdoors in the warmth of a spa is the perfect way to unwind and reflect on your day trekking through alpine terrain. The Tongariro Crossing transport services aim to get you to the track for this time. There are toilets at the start: 20 minutes in and 1 hour in. Wear comfy shoes that can handle the terrain. Summer Gallery; Winter Gallery; Contact; Current Forecast Keep up … Tongariro National Park (/ ˈ t ɒ ŋ ɡ ə r ɪr oʊ /; Māori: [tɔŋaɾiɾɔ]) is the oldest national park in New Zealand, located in the central North Island.It has been acknowledged by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site of mixed cultural and natural values.. Tongariro National Park was the sixth national park established in the world. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is situated in a National Park and the mountains are considered sacred.So, no excuses: leave no trace. There is a reason why the Tongariro Crossing is called one of the world’s best one day hike! This 19.4km single-day hike … Location: Tongariro National Park, North Island of New Zealand. Volcanic monitoring systems monitor activity and mitigate volcanic risk, but won't ensure your personal safety. This challenging trip begins at 1120 m, climbs the Mangatepopo Valley to the saddle between Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe, and goes through South Crater before climbing again to Red Crater, the highest point on the crossing at 1886 m. The Park Hotel is a top … Hiking the Tongariro Crossing. The long-winded gravel path will eventually lead you to Soda Springs.Then, the steep climb upward will be your indication that you are now going up the Devil’s Staircase.In fact, this is the section at the start of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing where many suffered. Current Forecast; Summer; Winter; Hiking Gear; COVID-19; About. The lake is tapu (sacred) and it is disrespectful to eat or drink around its shores.central crater. The most up to date information for the track. The crossing itself is quite simple with 3 - 4 steep climbs and it can be done in 6 - 8 hrs from start to end. If you manage to get a clear day, the photos can be spectacular. Tongariro Crosssing; Tongariro Northern Circuit; Whakapapa Village; Other Shuttle Services; Group Bookings; Frequently Asked Questions. If you are uncomfortable with this risk, choose a different track. The usual direction starts from Mangatepopo car park and ends at Ketetahi car park. It is a 19.4 km point to point hike through an amazing volcanic landscape. Tongariro Crossing volcanic lake. The “Crossing” (as it is more commonly known) reaches a peak of 1,886m / 6,187ft at the stunning Red Crater. 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