If you've been searching for things to do in Taupo and around Lake Taupo, then undoubtedly you will have found something that suits your taste. In a region full of geothermal activity, the famous Taupo hot pools, a plethora of adventure activities on offer, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beautiful lake on the water, Lake Taupo is a great place where you can easily spend a few days.
Besides all the great attractions Taupo offers, there is also some amazing hiking in and around Lake Taupo, ranging from easy walks to tougher climbs and epic alpine scenery.
These are some of the Lake Taupo hikes which should not be missed:
Spa Park to Huka Falls
The walk from the Spa park to Huka Falls takes you along the mighty Waikato River, and ends at the impressive Huka Falls. Along the way you will cross the Otumuheke stream, with some of the famous natural Taupo hot pools to enjoy, so bring your swimming gear. An easy and well defined walking track continues along the river surrounded by native bush. The walk then finishes at Huka Falls.
From here you can continue walking toward the Aratiatia Rapids. It is a 4 hour return walk from here, but if you are short on time, drive to the Aratiatia dam regardless, and aim to be there at either 10am-12pm-2pm-4pm. The gates of the dam open up at those times and the otherwise peaceful and beautiful rock pools fill up quickly and start displaying spectacular rapids.
- Duration : 2 hours
- Distance : 3km
- Grade : Easy walking
Mt Tauhara
Mt Tauhara lies just outside Taupo on the Taupo-Napier highway, but can easily be seen from anywhere in Taupo as it's the only noticeable peak in the area, apart from the volcanoes, which are on the other side of Lake Taupo approximately 50kms away. While many visitors may glance at this mountain as they travel through Taupo, for people who have a few hours to spare, or do not have the time to embark on the full day Tongariro Crossing, the climb to the top of Mt Tauhara provides stunning views of the lake and incredible 360 degree vistas at the top with Mt Ngor, Ruaperu , the Kaimanawa ranges, and the Waikato farmlands to the north and east. The sometimes steep climb to the top takes about 1.30 hours and returns the same way. As this track passes through private farmland.
- Duration : 1.15-1.30 hours to the summit
- Distance : 3.8km
- Grade : Moderate
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing probably needs no introduction. This incredible full day hike is one of New Zealand's best day hikes, and lies in the Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO dual world heritage park. The 19.4km trek passes through dramatic volcanic landscapes and alpine scenery and features colorful crater lakes, steaming vents, deep glacial valleys, 360 degree panoramic views, alpine peaks and vegetation and will leave you in awe.
The track is well formed but is quite challenging due to the length of the hike, but also the various climbs and potential alpine weather conditions which may occur at any given time. Be prepared for all sorts of weather conditions, as it is very changeable.
The hike is one-way and takes about 7-8 hours to complete, so you will need have transportation arranged to and from the track. Shuttle services operate from National Park Village daily. If you plan to undertake the hike during winter, you will need certain skills and preparation, and you will also need to carry an ice axe and crampons. If you don't have the right experience for this, it's best advised not to hike here in winter.
- Duration : 7-8 hours
- Distance : 19.4km
- Grade : Moderate to difficult
Lake Rotopounamu Walk
On the road between Turangi towards Whakapapa and National Park you enter Tongariro National Park, and on the south side of the Te Ponanga saddle you can find Lake Rotopounamu. An easy 2-hour walk loops around this beautiful and tranquil lake, which is a haven for many of New Zealand's native birds. There are a few beaches along the way where you can swim in the lake.
- Duration : 2 hours
- Distance : 6.4km
- Grade : Easy walking
Mt Urchin - Kaimanawa Forest Park
Mount Urchin in Kaimanawa Forest park just east of Tongariro National Park off Desert Roead offers an easily accessible wilderness of beautiful beech forest, incredible views and a real alpine environment. This is a great option for travelers with less time to tackle the Tongariro Alpine Crossing but still want to enjoy a true alpine experience.
- Duration : 1.15-1.30 hours to the summit
- Distance : 3.8km
- Grade : Medium
Other great places to visit and things to do in New Zealand
The coastal paraside of Abel Tasman National Park
Top things to see and do in Tongariro National Park
Cape Reinga : More than just the lighthouse
The Coromandel : A small peninsula with a big character
Amazing hikes in and around Lake Taupo you shouldn't miss
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