Top Hikes in the Taupo Region
Putting one foot in front of the other excessively is something well worth doing in the North Island region of Lake Taupo!
Home to the largest lake in New Zealand and right next door to the world heritage site of the Tongariro National Park, Lake Taupo has plenty of walks and hikes to keep you challenged and entertained.
The township of Taupo is a great base for all your hiking activities in the region, whether you need a place to stay or a shuttle to the walking tracks.
Take a look at our list below to find the perfect tracks for you.
Table of Contents
1. Spa Park to Huka Falls
This gentle, family-friendly walk starts at Spa Thermal Park on Taupō’s northern edge and follows a well-maintained path beside the Waikato River all the way to the iconic Huka Falls.
It’s just about 3 km (1.86 mi) one way, typically taking a relaxed 45 minutes to an hour each way. A real highlight is the Otumuheke Stream, warm geothermal waters mingle with the river, creating natural hot pools that are irresistible on sunny days.
As you walk, native bush, grassy bluffs and interpretive signage lead to dramatic views of the river narrowing before tipping into the thundering falls.
Huka Falls themselves are a spectacle, a two-stage cascade that’s an unforgettable sight and sound. Find out more about the walk on the Department of Conservation (DOC) website.
Location: Between Spa Park in Taupo and Huka Falls. Then Huka Falls to Aratiatia Dam.
Time: 2 hours return. Or 6 hours return for Aratiatia Dam.
© NZPocketGuide.com2. Kinloch to Kawakawa Bay
Starting at the western end of Kinloch Beach, embark on a gorgeous half-day walk (or ride!) on the Great Lake Trail.
This intermediate-grade track gently rises through native bush, rewarding you with sweeping vistas of Lake Taupō’s western bays from Codgers Rock lookout.
Keep an eye out for rewarewa trees and the occasional giant mataī along the way. The trail then descends to the peaceful Kawakawa Bay, where you’ll find a shelter, toilets, and a perfect swimming spot for a midday break.
Find out more on the DOC website.
Location: Between Kinloch Beach and Kawakawa Bay.
Time: 3 hours one-way, 8.4 km (5.2 mi).
© Martyn Davies - Destination Great Lake Taupō (www.lovetaupo.com)3. Tongariro Alpine Crossing
If you haven’t heard of this hike then where have you been?! The most popular day-hike in New Zealand is a must-do when in the Lake Taupo region.
This epic 19-20 km (12-12.5 mi) trek on active volcanoes takes you up close to Mt Doom from The Lord of the Rings.
Stretching from Mangatepōpō to Ketetahi, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing offers a dramatic volcanic landscape that will leave you in awe. Expect a full-day adventure of 7-8 hours, depending on conditions and pace.
You’ll traverse lava flows, scoria scree, and ancient craters, reaching the highest point at Red Crater (1,886 m/6,188 ft). The showstopper? The surreal Emerald Lakes with their mineral-tinged hues, and the sacred Blue Lake.
But remember, this is alpine territory with rapidly changing weather, so come prepared with proper gear and respect for the elements.
Check in with weather forecast and shuttle information at your accommodation or i-SITE.
For a full guide, check out the Guide to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
Location: Between Highway 46 and Mangatepopo Road in the Tongariro National Park.
Time: 7 hours one way (arrange transportation at the end).
© Martin Grafetsberger - Destination Great Lake Taupō (www.lovetaupo.com)4. Opepe Historic Bush Walk
Both easy loop-walks in Opepe are steeped in history, offering a journey through time and nature. The northern loop winds through the last remaining virgin forest in the Lake Taupo region, while the southern loop reveals relics of the old Opepe settlement.
Choose the Northern Track, a 1.5 km (0.9 mi) loop through shady, mature rimu, mataī and miro forest, with a poignant detour to a small cemetery.
Or explore the 3 km (1.9 mi) Southern Loop, weaving through regenerating forest and remnants of the old township, including tōtara fencing and a bullock watering spot.
Both walks are family-friendly and rich in history, perfect for reflective souls or history buffs.
Learn more on the DOC website.
Location: Opepe, along State Highway 5, 17 km (11 mi) from Taupō.
Time: Northern Track: 30-45 minutes; Southern Loop: 1-1 hr 30 mins.
© NZPocketGuide.com5. Tongariro River Trail
This picturesque 15 km (9 mi) loop trail follows the serene Tongariro River through farmland and native bush, offering a delightful riverside stroll or cycle.
The trail is gentle in elevation, making it ideal for families and those seeking a relaxing outdoor experience.
Along the way, you’ll cross graceful swing-bridges and be treated to stunning alpine views framed by the distant peaks of Tongariro National Park.
A highlight of the journey is the National Trout Centre, where you can learn about freshwater ecology and observe trout in their natural habitat.
For more details about this trail, check out the DOC website.
Location: Tūrangi, along State Highway 1, Central North Island.
Time: 2-3 hours for a relaxed walk, or 1-2 hours for cycling.
© NZPocketGuide.com6. Mt Urchin
For a mountainous hike away from the crowds, try the Mt Urchin track. This short but rewarding alpine escape offers a mix of forest and alpine environments with incredible views of the Central North Island volcanoes and the Kaimanawa Mountain Ranges.
The 6.6 km (4.1 mi) return trail climbs steadily through beech forest before breaking out above the treeline to reveal sweeping vistas across Lake Taupō and the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park.
You’ll climb to the Urchin Trig (1,392 m/4,567 ft) in the Kaimanawa Forest Park.
Remember to be prepared for any conditions, as the track is graded “Advanced”.
Location: Kaimanawa Road, south of Turangi. Accessible via 4WD from the Urchin Campsite Road. Note that the Kaimanawa Road is a gravel road – follow the DOC signs for the “Urchin Track”.
Time: 3-4 hours return.
© NZPocketGuide.com7. Waihora Lagoon Walking Track
This gentle escape in the Pureora Forest Park leads you through ancient podocarp forest to a reflective lagoon. Follow a well-formed 730 m boardwalk that meanders among towering rimu and kahikatea before opening onto a simple viewing platform.
The highlight is the picturesque lagoon, especially after rainfall when the forest’s reflection is at its most poetic.
[Update: Access requires a 4WD along a rough gravel road—part of the adventure, but not recommended for ordinary sedans].
Find out more about the walk on the DOC website.
Location: Gravel road signposted off State Highway 32 in the Pureora Forest, western side of Lake Taupo.
Time: 15 minutes return.
© Thomas Camp on Wikipedia8. Lake Rotopounamu
Walk to a beautiful beach area along Lake Rotopounamu, perfect for swimming and spotting native birds in this conservation area. Nestled in Tongariro National Park, this serene 5 km (3 mi) loop offers an immersive journey through native podocarp and broadleaf forest.
The trail, typically completed in about two hours, is easy-going and ideal for families or reflective walkers. Along the way, you might catch sight of fantails or kererū as you breathe in the lush, mossy quiet.
Don’t miss Ten Minute Beach, a sandy cove perfect for a picnic or dipping tired feet.
According to our editor-in-chief, Laura, “It’s a hidden gem that showcases the quiet beauty of New Zealand’s native forests.”
Location: Lake Rotopounamu along State Highway 47 between Turangi and the Tongariro National Park, North Island.
Time: 2-hour loop.
© NZPocketGuide.com9. Great Lake Walkway – The Lions Walk
An easy stroll to take when you are looking for something to do within the Taupo township, the Great Lake Walkway takes you along the lakefront to Five Mile Bay.
The Great Lake Walkway, also known as the Lions Walk, is a beloved lakeshore path that draws both locals and visitors.
Stretching about 10 km (6 mi) one-way along a flat, paved route, it’s an easy Grade 1 walk that takes 1-2 hours each way on foot, or about 2 hrs 30 mins walking or 1 hr 30 mins cycling.
The path hugs Lake Taupo’s waterfront, passing peaceful bays, grassy picnic spots, hot-water beaches, playgrounds and rest areas.
On clear days, you’re treated to sweeping views of Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe. It’s ideal for families, cyclists, prams and dogs on leads, with cafés and toilets at every bay for convenient breaks.
Location: Between Lake Taupo Yacht Club and Five Mile Bay, Taupo, North Island.
Time: Up to 3 hours.
© Felicity Witters - Destination Great Lake Taupō (www.lovetaupo.com)10. Waipahihi Botanical Reserve
If you like a romantic stroll amongst pretty flowers, then the Waipahihi Botanical Reserve is the walk for you!
This 35-hectare floral paradise, nestled just south of town, is a hidden gem where cultivated beauty meets native forest calm.
Since 1966, volunteers have shaped this “forest in the making,” planting over 2,000 rhododendrons, camellias and azaleas that burst into colour each spring.
Scattered walking paths, like “Floral Walk” and “Lemonwood Walk”, range from a few hundred metres to 2 km (1.2 mi). These walks take between 15 to 90 minutes, depending on how many blooms and views you want to linger over.
The reserve is rich with birdlife and open daily until dusk.
Location: Shepherd Road, just south of Taupo along State Highway 1.
Time: 1 hr 30 mins.
© NZPocketGuide.comMore About Lake Taupo
That’s it for our guide to walks around Lake Taupo; for more information about hiking in New Zealand, check out the following articles:
- 10 Best Budget Accommodation in Taupo
- 15 Things to do in Taupo on a Rainy Day
- Where to Camp in Taupo
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Complete Travel Guide to Taupo.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Adventure Mark (Health and Safety Audit - Updated [2025])
- Work Safe NZ (Adventure Activities Guidelines - Updated [2025])
- Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
- AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2025])
- NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
- Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
- Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])
- Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
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