The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is described as one of the best one-day hikes in New Zealand. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing trek takes you from alpine meadows to mountain summit with stunning volcanic features along the way. On the Tongariro Apline Crossing you will walk across a lunar landscape of craters, scattered pumice, active volcanoes, mountain springs, lava flows, emerald lakes, piles of scoria and statue-like mounds of volcanic desert. It will take about 8-9 hours to allow time for photos and any sidetracks, the summit of Mt Tongariro is 1967 m and Mt Ngauruhoe (Mt Doom, for all the Lord of the Rings fans) at 2287m above sea level.
In winter the Tongariro Alpine Crossing Track Transport will arranged a guide, crampons and an ice axe, if you want to experience a true alpine adventure.
Be prepared with
- Plenty of water/fluids, especially on hot days
- Food (there is nowhere to purchase any thing on the track)
- Waterproof jacket/pants
- Good walking boots (it is uneven volcanic terrain)
- Warm clothing polypropylene
- Woollen hat and gloves
- Sunscreen or sun hat
All of the above essential equipment can be hired or purchased from The Alpine Centre.
For winter crossings will also have Crampons and ice axes for hire when required.
For more information on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing check the Tongariro Crossing website.
*Information provided from www.nationalpark.co.nz
We love the beauty of the Tongariro Northern Circuit Crossing
