From alpine tussock to cascading waterfalls, the Taranaki Falls Track is a short loop that captures the essence of Tongariro National Park. It’s one of the most rewarding day walks in the area, giving you volcanic landscapes, lush forest and an impressive waterfall all in under two hours.
What Makes the Taranaki Falls Track Special?
The Taranaki Falls Track is a favourite for locals and visitors because it blends Tongariro’s wild beauty into a manageable walk. Along the way you’ll pass through alpine meadows, cross streams, and descend through beech forest before arriving at the powerful 20-metre waterfall plunging over ancient lava cliffs.
This is a track where you can experience the geological story of Tongariro — carved by volcanic activity and softened by forest regrowth. On clear days, you’ll also spot Mt Ruapehu and Mt Ngauruhoe rising dramatically above the landscape.
Track Details
- Length: 6 km loop
- Time: 2 hours (easy to moderate pace)
- Start/Finish: Whakapapa Village
- Grade: Easy – suitable for most fitness levels
- Best for: Families, casual walkers, nature photographers
Highlights Along the Trail
- Alpine views: Wide open tussocklands with mountain backdrops.
- Forest walk: Refreshing stretches of native beech forest.
- The falls themselves: A dramatic 20-metre cascade plunging into a rocky pool, perfect for a rest stop and photos.
- Geological history: Lava cliffs and volcanic formations tell the story of past eruptions.
Helpful Tips
- Start early if you want the track quieter, as it’s a popular day walk.
- Wear sturdy shoes — the track is well formed but can be slippery after rain.
- Bring a rain jacket — Tongariro weather changes quickly.
- Parking: Plenty of Free carparks available at Whakapapa Village, which also has a visitor centre and facilities.
- No dogs allowed — Tongariro National Park is a protected dual World Heritage site, so dogs are not permitted.
- No drones permitted — To protect the environment and cultural values of the park, drones are not allowed without special authorisation.
Why Walk the Taranaki Falls Track?
If you want a shorter alternative to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, this track is ideal. You’ll still see volcanic landscapes, alpine plants and dramatic scenery — all without committing to a full-day hike. It’s a loop, so there’s always something new around the corner and it’s close to the heart of Whakapapa Village, making it easily accessible for travellers.
Travel Tips from Us
We’ve walked the Taranaki Falls Track many times and it’s always been the perfect way to unwind after a full day’s work on the maunga (mountain). It’s an easy loop but if you’d rather avoid a steep climb, start from the top track and walk anti-clockwise — heading down the staircase to the falls is much easier than going up. The river trail on the return is flat, peaceful and a relaxing finish to the walk.
✨ “He whenua rangatira, he tangata rangatira
From a noble land, come noble people.”
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