Mount Taranaki Track

The Mount Taranaki Track is a challenging 11.7 km route to the summit 2518 m of the perfectly formed, dormant volcano Mount Taranaki, located near the town of Stratford in the Taranaki region of the North Island of New Zealand. Being approximately 120,000 years old, it last erupted in 1775 and lies at the centre of the Egmont National Park. A difficult but popular out and back tramping route for those wanting to reach the clouds, it’s a walk only recommended for experienced adventurers and mountaineers. Despite much scrambling on scree slopes and stairs, enjoy lush forest, waterfalls and on a clear day, breath-taking 360-degree views from the summit. Stark but beautiful in its own right, boasting far-reaching views of the national park below and the surrounding peaks. The route is best from December to April for those with less experience but still involves a demanding 1.6 km climb to the peak and there’s ice within the crater year-round which means crampons and an ice axe may me necessary equipment to cross. There is limited parking do during summer months it is recommended that trampers organise a shuttle to drop them at North Egmont Road, where the track starts or another option is to start from the Stratford Plateau car park on Pembroke Road, Stratford. Trampers are cautioned not to underestimate this track, being laborious full day, so be prepared with equipment, plenty of food and water (water is not available along the route), and leave enough time to complete it. Walking poles and good hiking boots are highly recommended, as is giving yourself enough time for the descent. As with all alpine regions, weather is changeable and can be hazardous, making it very difficult to navigate, so be prepared to turn back if weather conditions become dangerous. Check the weather before you venture out. https://weather.niwa.co.nz/parks/Egmont%2520National%2520Park Considered a spiritual ancestor for the Taranaki Māori, its asked that all visitors respect the mountain and do not camp, cook, go to the toilet or litter in the summit area and do not stand on the summit peak. Based on our data, the trail is graded as hard. For information on how we grade trails, please click here. Also, check our latest community posts for trail updates. This trail can be completed in approx. 12 hours. Caution is advised on trail times as this depends on multiple variables. For more info, click here.Hut booking required on this trail, please visit here for more information.