Kaimanawa Forest Park walking tracks

Walking track

Description

Kaimanawa Forest Road Walk

Time: 20 min loop track

Begins from the Urchin camping area 3 km along Kaimanawa Road. A gently sloping, easy walk through beautiful native bush. There is a notable variety of forest types to be found on this short walk. A good spot for dog walking, although a permit is required. These are available from the Department of Conservation office in Turangi.

Pillars of Hercules

Time: 10 min

Pillars of Hercules swingbridge

Begins 2 km along Kaimanawa Road. A short walk brings you to the gorge known as the Pillars of Hercules. Take care on the steep steps at the beginning of the walk. This deep gorge has a complex history of formation. The river has eroded a narrow channel through ancient lava flows (350,000 years and older) of andesite and ignimbrite rock. This feature is even more spectacular from the air as the Tongariro River can be seen to suddenly narrow as it passes through this chasm. Return via the same track.

Pillars of Hercules to Urchin Camping Ground

Time:  1 hr

Begins from the Urchin camping area 3 km along Kaimanawa Road. A pleasant walk through kamahi forest with occasional views of the Tongariro River below. Return via same track, or along the road. Mountain biking is a popular activity on this track, and hunting is popular in the srrounding area. A hunting permit is required, which is available from the Turangi Department of Conservation office.

Kiko Road Loop Track

Time: 1 - 1 hr 30 min loop track

10 km north of Turangi on SH 1, Kiko Road turns off to the right. Drive 17 km to a carpark where there is a picnic area and toilet. Please be aware that the forest plantations on either side of Kiko Road are on private land.

A feature of this track is the variety of forest in a relatively small area. The western aspect is a podocarp forest of matai, miro and rimu. Looking to the north west the bush was milled right up the track and is now regenerating. In the distance is a view of Lake Taupo.

There is good hunting in the area, as well as access to the upper Tauranga Taupo river for fishing.

To the north east the forest is red/silver beech and kamahi with an understorey of crown fern. Along the eastern side of the loop you will see trees banded with aluminium to protect a rare species of red mistletoe from possum browse.

Activities

Plan and prepare

What to expect on a walking track:

• Easy to moderate walking from a few minutes to a day
• Track is mostly well formed, some sections may be steep, rough or muddy
• Suitable for people with low to moderate fitness and abilities
• Clearly sign posted. Stream and river crossings are bridged
• Walking shoes or light tramping/hiking boots required

Permits are required for hunting and dogs.

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