This feels more like -2degC (28degF) with moderate winds of 20 km/h . The Tongariro Alpine Crossing passes through volcanic hazard zones – even when the track is open, volcanic risk is present. Volcanic monitoring systems monitor activity and mitigate perfect season for the Tongariro volcanic risk, but won’t ensure your personal safety. If you are uncomfortable with this risk, choose a different track. Parking is limited near the access points to this track.

There are almost no trees to shelter under, you’re very exposed as you pass over the saddle and climb up to Red Crater and the Emerald Lakes. A breeze on a warm day will feel like a hairdryer. You’ll quickly become dehydrated. Access to water is not available. the track, so carry enough for the whole day – at least 2 litres per person, and hey, if you don’t drink it all, you might come across someone in trouble who needs it. Winter hiking can be a beautiful experience but you’ll need some alpine experience and an experienced mountain guide as the tracks are often covered in snow and ice.

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This is one of the most common Tongariro Alpine Crossing FAQs. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing measures 19.4km in length, but it will take you depending on the weather conditions. It is a 19.4km walk which starts with a staged climb to Red Crater.

Kaumatua Te Ngaehe Wanikau requests that visitors to the area respect the sacredness of the maungatapu by not touching or entering any waterways, including the alpine lakes. All waterways, including those of Tongariro’s lakes and Ngauruhoe’s peaks Ruapehu, are sacred to Ngati Hikairo Ki Tongariro. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is subject to a ‘Not Recommended Today” advisory during the summer hiking season when the weather is likely to be hazardous. Stuff Travel’s mission is to inspire Kiwis to travel and see the beauty of New Zealand.

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This condition used to be something that only runners had, but now I know it isn’t. Every step, your toenails are slamming into your boots. As I write this page, a couple of weeks later, one blackened toenail is on it’s way out, the poor thing. Once you are at the bottom, you will need to climb again in order to reach the Blue Lake.

Alpine environments have rapidly changing weather conditions at all times of the year. It is common to experience strong wind, high rainfall, heavy snowfall and rapid changes in temperature, even in summer. The MetService website has a forecast for Tongariro National Park. It’s a 20km hike over some steep terrain which, if you keep moving, will take you six to eight hours. It’s not worth racing for it. It’s so breathtaking that you’ll want to take your time. Because in that 20km you are going to catch views that you will just want to stand and soak up – colour-drenched lakes, red-rimmed craters, dark, forbidding volcanic rock.

How Long Does It Take To Hike Tongariro Alpine Crossing?

Both northbound and southbound traffic can use either direction, but they must pass through one or more of these places. Your choice of shuttle/bus operator will be dependent on your approach direction. Lift your head and look up at the mountaintops. Then, whoops! You are back, listing towards the side a particularly steep ridge. The next two sections of the track go through the active volcanic zone, near Te Maari craters – the site of the 2012 volcanic eruptions. Observe the warning signs, and keep your stops to a minimum. Follow the poled route across South Crater to a ridge leading up Red Crater.

Parking restrictions will be in effect at road-ends starting from the Labor weekend in October and continuing through to the end of April. Tongariro National Park was created from the extremes a still-active volcano history. It is a year-round adventurers’ destination in the rugged central heartland of the North Island. Call us today to book your stay and get ready for an epic adventure on the Tongariro Crossing. Although each person will have a different experience, one thing is certain: the more prepared you are, you’ll have a better time. During the summer season, we offer transport to and from the Tongariro Crossing to make it easier for our guests to enjoy the experience. So while the tracks are all clearly marked, it’s common to encounter slippery and steep sections.

Where Does The Tongariro Crossing Start And Finish

Particularly if you have had bad weather. Tourists will wait if the weather is good. Tourists could spend two to three days on the track when the good day arrives. It’s important to reserve a place to stay or shuttle to the Crossing in advance, as it can be very busy on any fine day. By the stress of turning up and finding everything is fully booked. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is considered to be the best one day hike in New Zealand.

It’s very steep and the track drops down from one side to the other. It is believed that the Mangatepopo Valley was formed by glaciers during the last Ice Age and then partially inundated by lava flows from Ngauruhoe. They will provide everything you need – expert guidance, transport and specialised gear, including hiking boots, rain jackets, fleece pants and tops, backpacks, ice axe, crampons and helmets. Joining a professionally-guided expedition is the best and most secure way to enjoy this amazing winter walk.