The weather varies significantly on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, it can change quickly in the space of a few hours but also settles into different patterns depending on the season. It starts from Mangatepopo, and the hikers wind their way through 17 kilometres of New Zealand's strenuous but extremely scenic route. If you want to hike the Tongariro Crossing, make sure you: are fit enough to walk 20 km in mountainous/alpine circumstances, partly uphill; start early (6.30h latest) to avoid crowds, you’ll finish between 13:00h and 15:00h (about 7-8 hours later); Accommodation, shuttle service, guides and great valued packages are available from National Park Village. Take the time to read each section to understand the trail and know what is ahead of you. The Tongariro Alpine crossing can be completed year-round. Soda Springs: 15-minute side trip from the head of Mangatepopo Valley, where you will find an oasis for the moisture-loving, yellow buttercups and white foxgloves. The crossing is a linear journey, starting on the west side of Mount Tongariro and finishing on the north side. Tongariro Crossing Shuttles Website: https://tongarirocrossingshuttles.co.nz/ Phone: +64 (0)7 892 2993 Email: info@tongarirocrossingshuttles.co.nz Pickup times & costs (approx): National Park - Park & Ride @ Railway Station (Findlay St) return 6am, 7am, 8am, 9am, 10am. In winter, when it is covered in a blanket of snow, you’ll need to be proficient with ice-axe and crampons and go with an experienced guide. Tongariro Alpine Crossing. (Note: you cannot climb Mt Ngauruhoe in winter). Read Time: 7 minutes. This hiking trek is renowned as one of top 10 world's best one-day walks. Hiking the Tongariro Crossing. It is a 19.4 km point to point hike through an amazing volcanic landscape. The button below is a comprehensive guide by the Department of Conservation (DOC) for planning and preparing to hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Winter is a wonderful time to experience the magic of Mt Tongariro with a guide. Side trips. The 8 hours of Tongariro Alpine Crossing is said to be a life-changing experience. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is in the 80,000ha of Tongariro National Park New Zealand, a dual world heritage site. tongariro Alpine crossing trail - PLANNING & PREPARATION. It is the best day trek we have done anywhere in the world. We loved the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and it will definitely be a highlight of our time in New Zealand. For a truly amazing hike with wonderful views and stunning volcanic scenery put the Tongariro Alpine Crossing on your list for New Zealand. Best times for the Tongariro Crossing Hike. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is 19.4 kms and you need an ok level of fitness and a good pair of hiking boots / shoes. Make sure you are well prepared to hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Getting there You will start at the Mangatepopo Carpark and after 6 to 8 hours you will arrive on the otherside at the Ketitahi Carpark. Best times for the Tongariro Crossing Hike. As a result, returning to the western end requires, retracing the 19.4 km crossing, walking 26 km via State Highways 46 and 47 back to the other trailhead, or completing the Tongariro Northern Circuit.. During this post, we run through what to expect with the different seasons and when the best times to hike the Crossing are. Ketetahi to Mangatepopo: Allow an extra hour to walk the track in reverse. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing can be walked in either direction and there are several side trips. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is rated as one of the Top 10 Day hikes in the world so its time to get this off your Bucket List with Tongariro Connection.