Walking Tracks In and Around Taupo
Where can you stretch your legs in Taupo? Which walks are easy to access from the town, either a short drive or within walking distance?
Here, we have listed all the best walks in Taupo for the job! See some of New Zealand’s largest geographical features, from alongside New Zealand’s longest river to the shores of New Zealand’s largest lake.
You could even stretch it to walking among some of New Zealand largest trees in the Opepe Reserve or Taupo’s highest mountain at Mt Tauhara.
We could do this all day, you could just scroll down to the list of walks in Taupo below and start planning your outing!
While you’re here, you might also be interested in 10 Amazing Things to Do in Taupo or find more hikes in the greater Taupo area with our 10 Wonderful Walks Around Lake Taupo.
Table of Contents
1. River Side Trail, Control Gates Bridge to Spa Park (1 Hour Return)
Follow the Waikato River from the Control Gates Bridge, through the picturesque Riverside Reserve and into Spa Thermal Park. This leisurely Grade 2 path suits walkers and cyclists of all ages and abilities, offering serene riverside views that feel both embracing and endlessly calming.
The 3 km (1.9 mi) trail weaves through native bush, passing Cherry Island, a great photo opportunity.
Along the way, you’ll slip through the Riverside Reserve and gently ascend behind Taupō Bungy, blending leafy quiet with adrenaline-spike thrills. The trail ends at Spa Thermal Park, where you can soak your muscles in natural hot pools at Otumuheke Stream.
This easy gradient trail takes about an hour on foot or just 15 minutes by bike.
Location: Control Gates Bridge, Tongariro Street, Taupō, Waikato, North Island.
© NZPocketGuide.com2. Spa Park to Huka Falls (2 Hours Return)
Start your journey at Spa Park, home to the famous geothermal spring of Otumuheke Stream. Here, you can take a dip in the natural hot pools where warm waters mingle with the cool Waikato River, a real treat on sunny days!
The well-maintained walking trail follows the river’s edge for about 3 km (1.9 mi) one way, typically taking a relaxed 45 minutes to an hour each direction.
As you stroll, you’ll encounter native bush, grassy bluffs and interpretive signage. The path includes a few short hill climbs, adding a touch of adventure to this family-friendly walk.
Your efforts are rewarded with dramatic views of the river narrowing before it plunges into the thunderous Huka Falls, a spectacular two-stage cascade that’s truly unforgettable.
Location: Spa Park, Country Avenue off Spa Road, Taupō, Waikato, North Island. The walk starts at Spa Park on Taupō’s northern edge.
© NZPocketGuide.com3. Huka Falls to Aratiatia Dam (2 Hours One Way)
From Huka Falls, a 7.3 km (4.5 mi) walking trail winds along the east side of the Waikato River, offering a rewarding half-day adventure.
As you climb over clifftops, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the turquoise water below, a constant reminder of the river’s power.
The trail descends under the State Highway 1 bridge before ending at Aratiatia Dam.
Here, you can witness a thrilling spectacle: the dam gates open several times daily, transforming the narrow gorge into a thundering torrent. Time your arrival with a release (at 10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm and 4 pm in summer) for the full dramatic effect.
Allow about two hours each way, and remember, dogs on leads are welcome on this moderately undulating track.
See more free natural attractions with our list of 15 Free or Cheap Activities in Taupo.
Location: Huka Falls, Huka Falls Road.
© NZPocketGuide.com4. Opepe Bush Reserve Walks (30 minutes – 1 hour Loop)
See some of the most pristine native bush remaining in the Taupo area at the fantastic Opepe Bush Reserve. T
he reserve has two loop walks, each taking around 30 minutes to complete. On the northern side of the road, see mature forest and an excellent example of some of New Zealand’s largest types of native trees.
Information panels describe the flora seen on the trail. There is also a historic gravesite where nine soldiers were buried during the 1869New Zealand Land Wars.
On the southern side of the road, the walk and the forest is a huge contrast in a regenerating with a few impressive logging relics to be seen.
Location: Napier Taupo Road, 17km from Taupo.
© NZPocketGuide.com5. Great Lake Walkway/Lion’s Walk (up to 3 Hours One Way)
Follow Taupō’s beloved Lions Walk along the shores of Lake Taupō. This gentle 10 km (6 mi) one-way lakeside stroll or ride takes 1-2 hours on foot or about 1 hr 30 mins cycling. The flat, paved path is ideal for families, cyclists, prams, and dogs on leads.
Starting from the Taupō Boat Harbour, the walkway hugs the waterfront, passing peaceful bays, grassy picnic spots, hot-water “sand” beaches, playgrounds, and rest areas.
On clear days, you’re treated to sweeping views of Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro, and Ngauruhoe. With cafés and toilets at every bay, it’s perfect for a leisurely outing.
Location: Anywhere along the lakefront between Taupō Boat Harbour and Three Mile Bay.
© Felicity Witters - Destination Great Lake Taupo - www.lovetaupo.com6. Mt Tauhara Summit (2-3 Hours Return)
For a rewarding peak to conquer near Taupo, set your sights on Mt Tauhara! This 1,088-metre summit offers a diverse 2.8 km one-way track, starting on private farmland (public access permitted) before winding through native forest rich with birdsong.
The final ascent is steep but worth the effort, rewarding hikers with breathtaking 360-degree views of Lake Taupo, Tongariro National Park‘s volcanic peaks, and rolling farmland. On clear days, you might even spot Mt Taranaki in the distance.
Remember, this is a sacred maunga to Ngāti Tūwharetoa, so treat it with respect.
Wear sturdy footwear, bring layers for the potentially windy summit, and allow 2-3 hours return. The track can be muddy after rain, adding to the adventure!
Location: Napier Taupo Road, 9 km from Taupo.
© www.lovetaupo.com7. Waipahihi Botanical Reserve (1-hour Loop)
Walk among the attractive gardens of the Waipahihi Botanical Reserve. This 35-hectare floral paradise, just south of town atop Shepherd Road, offers a delightful mix of cultivated beauty and native forest calm.
Since 1966, volunteers have shaped this “forest in the making,” planting over 2,000 rhododendrons, camellias and azaleas.
A network of walking paths, including “Floral Walk” and “Lemonwood Walk”, range from a few hundred metres to 2 km (1.2 mi). These trails take between 15 to 90 minutes, depending on how many blooms and views you want to linger over.
The reserve is particularly stunning in October and November during New Zealand’s spring, when the flowers are in full bloom.
Location: Shepherd Road, Taupo, Waikato, North Island. Hidden just south of town.
© MaxPixel8. Rangatira Point Track (1 hr 30 mins Return)
For a fresh perspective of Lake Taupo yet not too far from the town, try the Rangatira Point Track at Acacia Bay. This scenic 2 km one-way path meanders through regenerating native bush and along the lakeside, offering sweeping vistas of the deep blue waters.
Capture views across the lake toward Mt Tauhara and Taupo town, with plenty of secluded spots perfect for a picnic or swim in summer.
The gentle terrain makes it ideal for families and casual walkers, taking about 45 minutes each way. Keep an ear out for cyclists, as it’s a shared-use track.
Location: 2 km past the Acacia Bay Road boat ramp, 8 km from Taupo, Western shore of Lake Taupo.
© www.lovetaupo.com9. Kaimanawa Forest Park to Mt Urchin (3-4 Hours Return)
For hikers seeking both a challenge and stunning views, the Mt Urchin Track in Kaimanawa Forest Park is a must-do. This 3.2 km (2 mi) one-way climb starts with a steep zigzag through beech forest.
As you break into subalpine scrub, a breathtaking panorama unfolds, Lake Taupō, the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park, and the vast Kaimanawa Ranges stretch as far as the eye can see.
At 1,397 m, the summit can be windy, so pack layers. The return trip takes 3-4 hours, and the track can be slippery after rain.
This DOC “Advanced” walk offers a solid workout and a true sense of wilderness. According to our editor-in-chief, Laura, “For those who love a summit with sweeping views, Mt Urchin is hard to beat.”
Location: Kaimanawa Road, Taupo, Waikato, North Island. About 40 km (25 mi) southwest of Taupo.
© Martin Grafetsberger - Destination Great Lake Taupō (www.lovetaupo.com)10. Tongariro Alpine Crossing (7-8 hours)
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is widely hailed as New Zealand’s greatest one-day hike, and it’s easy to see why. This epic 19-20 km (12-12.4 mi) journey from Mangatepōpō to Ketetahi takes you through a dramatic volcanic landscape of lava flows, scoria fields and ancient craters.
The highlight? Reaching the Red Crater, the highest point at 1,886 m, before descending to the surreal Emerald Lakes and the sacred Blue Lake.
The Tongariro Crossing offers an otherworldly experience, but it’s not for the faint-hearted. Expect a challenging 7-8 hour trek through alpine terrain with rapidly changing weather.
Be sure to come prepared with sturdy footwear, layered clothing and plenty of water. Consider booking a shuttle in advance for a hassle-free experience.
Location: Tongariro National Park, Manawatu-Wanganui Region, North Island. The track starts at Mangatepōpō car park and ends at Ketetahi car park, approximately 20 km apart.
© Martin Grafetsberger - Destination Great Lake Taupō (www.lovetaupo.com)More About Taupo
That’s it for our guide to walks in Taupo; for more information about other activities in the region, check out the following articles:
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.
