Rainbow Mountain-Crater Lake Walk
Track category
Short walk
Time:
15 min one way
Distance:
1 km
Description
Rainbow Mountain
From the carpark, follow the signs. There are great views over two crater lakes that are set against a backdrop of bare brown, orange and red steaming cliffs and an array of geothermal vegetation.
Fitter and more experienced trampers might like to take the tramping track up to the mountain summit. Add another 3 hours up to the summit and back from the crater lakes.
Getting there
Rainbow Mountain lies 26 km south-east of Rotorua, beside SH 5 (the Rotorua-Taupo highway). Approaching from Rotorua, the carpark for the walking track is situated just past the turnoff for SH 38 (the Murupara/ Waikaremoana highway), on the left-hand side of the road.
Plan and prepare
View of crater lake from track
You will need to be well prepared when tramping on conservation land, especially on the longer day walks.
Ensure you have strong, comfortable boots, warm clothing, a good raincoat, first aid kit, food and drink, a hat and sunscreen.
It is also advisable to leave your tramping intentions with a responsible person, in case you get lost.
Guides and commercial tourism providers