Often described as the best one-day hike in New Zealand, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing provides an opportunity to experience some of the most scenic and active volcanic areas of the National Park. The total distance one way is 19.5km and you can expect to be no less than amazed with the sights and sounds you will encounter.
The track winds up the Mangatepopo Valley to the saddle between Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. Poles lead across the South crater to the tracks highpoint at Red Crater (1886m), an active and still steaming vent.
Beyond the Red Crater the track passes the Emerald Lakes and past Te Wai-Whakaata-o-te-Rangihiroa (Blue Lake). From here the route descends to Ketetahi Hut and skirts the nearby springs down through native forest to the car park.
We can and will only recommend the best local operators to take you out on the Crossing. For anyone that is reasonably fit and enjoys the outdoors, this is an experience not to be missed.
These times are just an approximate as people walk at a different pace:
