Tongariro Archives - Cut Lunch Adventures

The Tongariro Alpine winter Crossing with its amazing views is awe-inspiring. So, after having hiked it in summer, it was time to try it over winter.

Often described as one of New Zealand’s greatest day hikes, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing can be a challenging journey across a remarkable volcanic landscape. Even more so in winter.

The snow and skyline provide for some spectacular shots

For safety reasons, we would recommend taking a guide during the winter months. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is covered with snow and ice and the trail can often be hard to navigate. Plus, conditions can change very quickly leading to white out conditions.

Get your gear on – ice axe, crampons (depending on snow and ice levels) and helmet

The crossing from end-to-end is 19km, so would recommend an early start. It can also be a bit of a long hot slog once the snow conditions deteriorate, especially on a sunny day.

It’s easy to overheat on the uphill climb on a sunny day

After the Ketetahi hut, there is a lengthy descent back to the Ketetahi Car Park (end of the crossing).

Prepare to glissade some sections – with expert guidance!

Onwards and upwards!

Trevor

Insights

You can do this self guided if experienced, ensuring you have the right equipment for snow and ice conditions eg. hiking boots, warm jacket, waterproof trousers, backpack, crampons, ice axe and helmet (included for free if you book a guided crossing).

Taking the right gear is essential – hiking poles are also helpful when not using an ice axe

Beware of any volcanic activity on the mountain

Take at least 2 litres of water and food or snacks as there is no place on the crossing where you can obtain it – otherwise it will be a very long 19km to your pickup.

Dramatic views of Mt Ngauruhoe, aka Mt Doom in Lord of the Rings

It takes around 8-9 hours to undertake the winter crossing, depending on conditions – this compares to around 6-7 hours in summer.
A good level of fitness is recommended.

If you want to go with a guided group with equipment supplied in the price, we recommend adventureoutdoors.co.nz or adrift.co.nz.

Great photo opportunities which are quite different to the summer crossing

Avoid wearing sports shoes and cotton clothes.

The weather is ever changeable, so having the right gear is crucial

Ensure you have arranged transport pick up at the end of the crossing – otherwise it’s a long walk home.

Beautiful 360 views looking back towards Mt Ngauruhoe

Described as one of New Zealand’s greatest day hikes, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing can be a challenging journey, across a remarkable volcanic landscape.

Logistics

Staying in the Tongariro National Park village, we had transport provided at either end.

Requiring a good level of fitness to complete the Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike, you need to cover the distance of around 19.4km (12mi) in 7-8 hours. This includes two challenging climbs, of around an hour each, carrying a day pack.

It’s not just a ‘stroll in the park’, but a serious hike over a mountain.

Highlights

Among the highlights are steaming vents and hot springs, old lava flows, beautiful water-filled craters and stunning views.

On clear days you can see Mount Taranaki in the west, Mount Ngauruhoe (Mt Doom), Kaimanawa Ranges, Lake Taupo and beyond.

Half way! View before going down the screen slope to the lakes

The best views are from the highest point, Red Crater, 1,886m (6,188ft). From here, the track descends steeply to Emerald Lakes and you can see across to the Blue Lake past the Central Crater. The Emerald Lakes’ brilliant colour is caused by minerals leaching from the adjoining thermal area.

Thermals can be seen steaming around the Red Crater and Emerald Lakes.

There is a short but narrow ridge you need to cross to reach Red Crater. In high winds, this can be quite tricky to navigate.

A very steep scree slope also awaits your descent to Emerald Lakes. At Ketetahi Hut, look out for the room where a volcanic rock fell through the roof during the 2012 volcanic eruptions.

After the hut, the trail winds down through scrub and native bush to the carpark

After the hut, there is a lengthy descent back to the car park at Ketetahi Car Park (end of the crossing).

Onwards and upwards!

Trevor

Insights

Plan and book ahead. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike is free, but it’s not a circular track, meaning you’ll need to arrange for someone to drop you off at the beginning and pick you up at the end of the track.
Transport can easily be arranged from Taupo, which serves as a great base for all sorts of North Island adventure activities, or within the Tongariro National Park.
For other transport or accommodation options, check out the Tongariro Crossing website.

Watch the weather. The weather on the Tongariro crossing can change rapidly, so be prepared to change your plans and turn back, especially when visibility is poor and there are strong winds
Check the Tongariro or National Park mountain forecasts

An easy section at the start of the track

If the Department of Conservation (DOC) advises against hiking the Crossing, heed their warnings – https://www.doc.govt.nz
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing can technically be hiked year-round. However, it’s best hiked in the summer months (December-February).
If you do want to hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in the winter, a guide is recommended.