Kia Ora. Welcome to Ruapehu

Tama Lakes

Discover the serenity of Tama Lakes Track, an extension of the Taranaki Falls Walk in Ruapehu. This 17km return hike offers awe-inspiring alpine landscapes, pristine lakes nestled within ancient craters, and an escape from the crowds.

This walk is loaded with beautiful scenery and jaw-dropping landscapes. An extension of the Taranaki Falls Walk, the Tama Lakes track crosses undulating tussock country, and alpine herb fields to reveal the beautiful alpine lakes that occupy several old explosion craters on the Tama Saddle between Ruapehu and Ngāuruhoe. An incredibly peaceful walk that escapes the crowds. Some would call it the Tongariro Alpine Crossing's little brother. On a 17km return trip, the track boasts imposing viewpoints of the lower lake at around 1200m, then climbs steeply to the upper lake viewpoint at around 1400m. There are no formed tracks down to the lakes themselves and the descent to both is via steep gullies. Tama Saddle also acts as a funnel for prevailing westerly winds and windproof clothing is recommended. Read our blog post about Tama Lakes and discover why the Tama Lakes Track is a must-do in Ruapehu.