New Zealand > North Island > Central North Island > Mt Ruapehu Travel Guides > Natural Attractions

Round the Mountain Track

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The Round the Mountain Track is the name given to the 4 - 6 day tramp around Mt Ruapehu. It traverses a myriad of landscapes, ranging from mountain beech forest, tussock-country and alpine herb fields; to desertlands and glacial river valleys. Although a greater part of the track is in an alpine environment, there are no major alpine passes.

Difficult walking and/or navigation can be expected during winter months, as snow can cover the track. Full alpine gear should be carried during this period (ice axe, crampons, and adequate cold weather clothing).

Experience the diverse landscapes and vegetation on Mt Ruapehu's flanks - from the Rangipo Desert on eastern slopes to the beech and podocarp rainforests of the southern and western aspects.

Round the Mountain Track

Details

Getting There: The track begins at the end of Ngauruhoe Place 100 metres below Whakapapa Visitor Centre. There are two options. The Lower Taranaki Falls Track crosses tussock and shrubland before following the Wairere Stream through mountain beech forest to the base of Taranaki Falls. On leaving the falls, the track climbs a set of steps and brings you to the junction with the Upper Taranaki Falls Track. The lower track, to this point, takes an hour and a quarter. Alternatively, the Upper Taranaki Falls track takes you over tussock and shrubland to the same point in one hour.

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Location

Getting ThereThe track begins at the end of Ngauruhoe Place 100 metres below Whakapapa Visitor Centre. There are two options. The Lower Taranaki Falls Track crosses tussock and shrubland before following the Wairere Stream through mountain beech forest to the base of Taranaki Falls. On leaving the falls, the track climbs a set of steps and brings you to the junction with the Upper Taranaki Falls Track. The lower track, to this point, takes an hour and a quarter. Alternatively, the Upper Taranaki Falls track takes you over tussock and shrubland to the same point in one hour.