Tama Lakes Track
A substantial alpine day hike to crater-lake views between Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe.
Route overview
Cross Taranaki Falls and exposed tussock country to Tama Saddle and the Lower Tama viewpoint.
Tama Lakes Track continues beyond Taranaki Falls across open tussock and alpine herb fields to Tama Saddle. The main record ends at the official Lower Tama viewpoint; steep unstable gullies to the lakes and the rough Upper Tama side route are excluded.
Trail facts
- Country
- New Zealand
- Region
- Whakapapa Village, Tongariro National Park
- Distance
- 17.6 km return to Lower Tama viewpoint
- Typical duration
- 5–6 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- null — not published as a stable route total
- Best season
- Snow-free, clear and settled conditions
- Trail type
- Return
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No separate day-walk permit; current DOC, weather and volcanic checks remain mandatory.
Safety context
Check mountain weather, carry full alpine day-hike equipment and do not descend to or enter the lakes. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Strong wind, no shelter, low cloud, snow, ice, long exposure and unstable off-track gullies.
Highlights
New Zealand, Tongariro, Tama Lakes, Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, alpine hike, crater lake
Why find a buddy
High-value buddy route for shared weather monitoring, turnaround discipline and support over a long exposed day.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.