Taranaki Falls Hike

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is the most famous one-day one-way hike in Tongariro National Park and it's part of the Tongariro Northern Circuit, a three-day loop hike that circles around the national park visiting some of the most incredible viewpoints along the way.

The weather was not on our side to do an overnight hike, so instead we opted for a day trek on a portion of the Tongariro Northern Circuit. A 6.2km loop brings hikers from the Whakapapa Village to Taranaki Falls, a gorgeous waterfall that seems to burst out of the cliff face.

I recommend hiking this loop from the Lower Track to the Upper Track; there's a bit less climbing this way!

TARANAKI FALLS HIKE DETAILS

When: year-round

Where: Tongariro National Park

Difficulty: easy

Length: 2 hours for the 6.2km loop

Directions: just past the Chateau Tongariro, this track has two entrances; I recommend hiking the Lower Track and finishing with the Upper Track

Bathrooms: yes, just after you see the waterfall about half-way through the hike

Public Transit: no