Whakapapa Village short walks

Whakapapa Nature Walk

Time: 15 min loop track
Track category: Easy access short walk

This sealed loop track gives a glimpse of the unique flora of Tongariro National Park. A series of on-site information panels explain the various vegetation zones in the park.

Getting there: Begins 250 m above Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre on SH48. 

Mounds Walk

Time: 20 min return
Track category: Short walk 

Debris avalanches during Ruapehu’s periods of volcanic activity are believed to have formed these mounds thousands of years ago. The top of the track offers good views of the volcanoes and surrounding area.

Getting there: Begins 5 km below Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre on SH48. 

Tawhai Falls

Time: 20 min return
Track category: Short walk

The falls, which tumble over the edge of an ancient lava flow, are reached after a short stroll through mountain toatoa and beech forest.

Getting there: Begins 4 km below Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre on SH48.

Ridge Track

Time: 30–40 min, 1.2 km return
Track category: Walking track

After a short climb through low beech forest, the track emerges into alpine shrublands with panoramic views of Mt Ngauruhoe and the surrounding landscape.

Getting there: Begins 150 m above Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre. 

These walks all start near Whakapapa Village, on SH48.