How hard is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing?

How hard is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing?

How difficult is the Tongariro Crossing? The Tongariro Crossing covers 19.4 km of alpine terrain. This includes loose scoria, ancient lava flows and beech forest. The Tongariro Crossing is a moderate-level hike and, given its length and difficult terrain, requires hikers to be of a good level of fitness.

How long does it take to do the Tongariro Crossing?

Prepare for a long, challenging day Allow 9 hours to complete the walk. There are between 9 and 11 hours of daylight in winter, so leave early enough to complete the trip before it gets dark. Always take a head torch. Be prepared to turn back if conditions are no longer safe or if your progress is too slow.

What is the Tongariro Crossing known for?

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is heralded as the best one-day trek in New Zealand and is regarded as among the top ten single-day treks in the world. Many who complete the 19.4 km (12 mile) journey will tell you the climbs can be steep and the weather unpredictable, though worth it in every aspect.

What grade is the Tongariro Crossing?

Moderate
Grade: Moderate Difficult allow 45mins-1hr. This section of the track hosts the “Devil’s Staircase” which is a tough climb, rising 200 metres in a short distance . The track surface here is crossing lava flows and other volcanic debris so take care to adjust to the different walking surface.

How do you hike Tongariro?

Tips for Hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

1. Take lots of water (1.5-3L).
2. Bring an umbrella.
3. Plan your time accordingly.
4. Walk quickly to Mount Ngauruhoe.
5. You don’t need hiking shoes to do this walk.
6. Bring a sweater and jacket.
7. Wear sunblock and bring a hat.

How do you train for Tongariro?

The Tongariro is a six to eight-hour endurance test packed full of challenging climbs and equally taxing descents. If you incorporate a few sessions of aerobic exercise into your week and don’t have any major aches and pains/illness, then in all honesty you shouldn’t have too much trouble walking the track.

Who owns Tongariro Lodge?

Tony Hayes
Tony Hayes is a fly fishing legend. As owner of the Tongariro Lodge (click here for specials) he has fished with world leaders, Hollywood stars and some of the best anglers the world has ever seen.

What can I bring to Tongariro Crossing?

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing passes over a volcano through an alpine environment….

• Water Proof Jacket. Yes, you do need to take a rain jacket on a sunny day.
• Warm Layers.
• Warm Hat.
• Sturdy Foot Wear.
• Food & Water.
• Sun Protection.
• Map.

Can you swim in the Emerald Lakes Tongariro?

Both the Emerald and Blue Lakes in Tongariro are not suitable for swimming but each has a different reason behind the rule. The Emerald Lakes are very cold and highly acidic. The Blue Lake, on the other hand, is tapu (sacred) and visitors are prohibited to touch the water or even eat or drink around its shores.

How many people walk the Tongariro Crossing each day?

The track is equipped to handle around 600 walkers daily but on busy days it’s getting as many as 3000.

Where is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in New Zealand?

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is in the 80,000ha of Tongariro National Park New Zealand, a dual world heritage site. Accommodation, shuttle service, guides and great valued packages are available from National Park Village.

Why was the Tongariro Alpine Crossing made sacrosanct?

The generosity and foresight of Ngāti Tuwharetoa saw the heart of the mountainous area made sacrosanct in 1887, with the intent that the Crown would stand alongside Ngāti Tuwharetoa to ensure the continued protection of Tongariro. This led to the establishment of the Tongariro National Park in 1894, a first for New Zealand, and fourth in the world.

Where do you drop off at the Tongariro Crossing?

The Tongariro Crossing shuttle service will drop you off at the Mangatepopo end of the Track. You will start your trek across alpine meadows then up and over the moon like landscape of Mt Tongariro down into a pristine rain forest to the Ketetahi end of the track.

What to see in the Tongariro National Park?

Tongariro National Park is rich in both cultural identity and dramatic, awe-inspiring natural scenery. Unique landforms, including the volcanic peaks of Ngauruhoe, Tongariro and Ruapehu ensure the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is considered a world-renowned trek.