Bookings are required for huts and campsites in peak season.
Walk around a volcanic mountain and immerse yourself for days in the strong, silent beauty of this World Heritage area.
This track leads right around Mount Ruapehu, one of three towering volcanic cones within the Tongariro National Park. The cultural significance of this area to Maori people has earned the park World Heritage status.
Whakapapa Village > Waihohonu Hut
Follow the track as is leads through tussock and shrubland to the Wairere Stream. Pass through tranquil mountain beech forest to the base of the Taranaki Falls. From here wind your way upwards to the Tama Saddle. before descending to Waihohonu Hut for the night.
5 hours 30 min walking
Waihohonu Hut > Rangipo Hut
Today's track leads through the North Island's only true desert and one of the most unique landscapes in the park. Explore wind sculptured sands, stark volcanic and stunning mountain views as you traverse the eastern side of Ruapehu on the way to Rangipo Hut.
5 hours walking
Rangipo Hut > Mangaehuehu Hut
Leave the desert lands of Rangipo behind as the track returns to picturesque mountain beech forest. Along the way the trail crosses the magnificent Waihianoa Gorge, a giant fissure through the volcanic landscape.
5 hours 30 min walking
Mangaehuehu Hut > Mangaturuturu Hut
Weave through alpine tussock and beech forest as you make your way downhill from Mangahuehu Hut. Along the way the track passes Rotokawa, an alpine tarn featuring several wetland species, tumbling cascades and a lava ridge covered in alpine herbs.
4 hours 30 min walking
Mangaturuturu Hut > Whakapapaiti Hut
Today's walk takes you across the Mangaturuturu River, past lakes and through river valleys. Admire the spectacular waterfalls that tumble down lava bluffs in the Whakapapaiti Valley.
5 hours 30 min walking
Whakapapaiti Hut > Whakapapa Village
Continue down the Whakapapaiti River valley. Travel through groves of native kaikawaka and cabbage trees hidden in the beech forests on your way to Whakapapa village the end of your journey.
2 hours 30 min walking
Click the link below for more information and detailed maps about this hike.
Alternative routes
There are several access points the Round the Mountain track meaning you can hike in either direction or choose to walk a single section. There are also several side-trips available
Getting there
There are several access points to the Round the Mountain Track.
Need to know
The Round the Mountain Track can be walked at any time of year, but the safest and most popular time is from November to May.
This is a mountain wilderness area where the weather can change quickly, so come well prepared.
