View to the south over the Waiotapu
thermal area

After taking in the sights of the two craters on the Crater Lake walk, continue north and upwards through regenerating native vegetation and past the bare, coloured and steaming ridges. There are regular opportunities for good views over the surrounding countryside, but to get the complete 360 degrees you need to continue on up to the summit.

Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from the crater lakes, the summit road is reached - watch out for the occasional vehicle as you proceed the remaining 10 minutes to the very top.

View from the summit over to lakes
Tarawera, Rotomahana and Okaro
also Mt Tarawera with snow

From here you can see Mt Tarawera; Lakes Tarawera, Rotomahana and Rerewhakaaitu to the north; the Paeroa Range to the west; the Urewera Ranges and Kaimanawa Forest to the east; and Mt Tauhara, Lake Taupo and the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park to the south.

Mountain biking and cycling

Open to uphill mountain biking only, the Rainbow Mountain Summit Track is part of a fantastic mountain bike loop.

Start on the Te Ara Ahi Cycle Trail (Grade 2 - Easy) from the carpark on SH 5 or at Te Ranga (Kerosene Creek). Ride uphill on Te Tihi O Ruru (the summit track) and descend on Te Ranga, a downhill mountain bike only track (Grade 4 - Advanced).

Map of the mountain bike loop (PDF, 1079K)

About the area

You 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.

You are advised to leave your tramping intentions with a responsible person.