During the summer months between December and April (weather dependent) these six well-marked trails allow visitors to explore the rocky formations without the snow.
Skyline Trail
Time: Allow 1.5 to 2.5 hours return trip
Distance: 2.5km (return)
Track starts: From the top of the Sky Waka gondola
Considered one of the best short walks in the Tongariro National Park, the Skyline Walk takes you from the top of the Sky Waka gondola (2020m) up the mountain to the Skyline Ridge (2300m). You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Mt Ngauruhoe, Lake Taupō, and beyond.
Waterfalls Descent
Time: Allow 1 to 2 hours (descent)
Distance: 2.5km
Track starts: From the top of the Sky Waka gondola
Starting from the top of the Sky Waka gondola, you’ll descend the same path as ancient lava flows and lahars, past magnificent waterfalls, rugged volcanic terrain, and enjoy incredible views of the Central Plateau. The walk concludes at the Sky Waka Gondola base area.
Meads Wall Trail
Time: Approximately 20 minutes return trip
Track starts: From the bottom of the Rangatira Chairlift at Whakapapa Ski Field
The perfect walk if you’re short on time or a Lord of the Rings fan. The Meads Wall is a short ten-minute walk from the bottom of the Rangatira Chairlift at the Whakapapa ski field. It leads to a Lord of the Rings movie location and also enjoys spectacular views.
Meads Wall courtesy of Mt Ruapehu
Wild West Trail
Time: Allow 2 – 2.5 hours return trip
Distance: 2.7km
Track starts: From the top of the Sky Waka gondola
Follow the trail markers west on a journey that winds its way downhill through open terrain with views of Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe, and Mt Taranaki. The walk concludes at the Sky Waka Gondola base area.
Yankee Trail
Time: Allow 1.5 hours (descent)
Distance: 2.7km
Track starts: From the top of the Sky Waka gondola
Heading out towards the western part of the ski area, take a right turn at the Delta Corner, following the trail markers and descending through open lava and scoria fields with uninterrupted views of the western flanks of Mt Ruapehu before connecting with the Waterfalls Descent Trail to take you back to base.
Knoll Loop Trail
Duration: Allow 1 hour 45 mins (ascent and descent)
Length: 2km (return)
Track starts: From the top of the Sky Waka gondola
Follow the Skyline Trail to the top of the Valley T-bar (about halfway up the Skyline Trail) before turning to the west at the marked intersection and following the trail markers on a climbing traverse across solid lava sheets that have been polished smooth by glacial action over the last 20,000 years. Once at the top of the Knoll Ridge, descend the ridge itself back down to Knoll Ridge Chalet.
As always, it’s important to go prepared. Be sure to wear suitable footwear and clothing, pack plenty of drinking water and sunscreen, let someone know where you are headed. We also recommend checking out plan your trip and checking the conditions of the mountain and status of the walks before going. The Sky Waka gondola may close in inclement weather conditions.
Skotel Alpine Resort is the closest accommodation to Mount Ruapehu Whakapapa Ski Field and the Sky Waka. Choose from a wide range of accommodation options from backpacker style to family rooms. BOOK NOW.
Map and walk trails courtesy of www.whakapapa.com