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Ruaphehu Crater Lake Climb |
The Climb to the crater lake on Mt Ruapehu is a rewarding climb with outstanding views of Mt Ngauruhoe, Tongariro, Mt Taranaki to the West, surrounding districts and of course the crater lake itself. The trail is unmarked and caution should be taken in places.
Ruapehu Summit Climb details.
The Mt Ruapehu summit climb starting point is the top of the Bruce Road or by taking the Chairlift ride to the top of the Waterfall express chair. Note the chairlift runs until 4pm each day in the summer weather permitting.
Mt Ruapehu Summit Climb from the top of the Waterfall Express Chair
Approximately 5 hours return.
From here there are two options one best suited when snow is around and the other when there is no snow at the top of the Waterfall express chair.
With snow. Follow the Knoll ridge to the left of the Knoll ridge T bar until you reach the Last T bar pylon. From here continue towards Glacier Knob (you may be able to see a zig-zag track) then around to the right and onto The Dome ridge that will take you to the emergency shelter and views of the crater lake. Due to the unstable nature of the area it is not advised to continue past this point.
When there is no snow at the top of the Waterfall express chair traverse to the right past the Knoll ride T bar and climb along Restful Ridge. As you near the top of Restful Ridge you may be able to see a narrow zig-zag track leading up to Dome ridge and onto the Dome shelter.
For map of the routes please refer to Tongariro Park Map 273-04
Mt Ruapehu Summit Climb from the top of the Bruce Road.
Allow a full day return.
Should only be attempted in fine weather and in winter only for those with alpine experience.
The lower part of this track can be found on Topographic map 260-S20
The upper part is unmarked but forms the same route described above for no snow.
Caution: The weather in the Tongariro National Park can change quickly and climbers should be prepared.
For Ruapehu summit climb accommodation click here.
Try these links for information about these other great walks in the area. Tongariro Crossing, Ohakune old coach road. |
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