Tongariro Alpine CrossingTravel & Exploration
Last update 14 h. agoCreated on the 17th of May 2026
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Duration
~6.1 hours
Distance
19.7 km
Elevation gain
706 m
Difficulty
T2 — moderate mountain hike
High point
1763 m
Volcanoes, Steam and Emerald Lakes
A 19.4 km one day traverse of an active volcanic landscape in Tongariro National Park, climbing past the Red Crater to the vivid Emerald Lakes. Widely regarded as the finest day hike in New Zealand, it draws steady streams of walkers across the Mordor like terrain made famous by Lord of the Rings.
Weather above the bushline turns fast even in summer, so pre book the shuttle between Mangatepopo and Ketetahi car parks, start early, and carry windproof layers, sun protection and at least two litres of water.
