Starting just below the Whakapapa Visitor Centre at Whakapapa Village this popular 2-hour return loop track is a relatively easy hike. The lower track passes through tussock and alpine shrublands before entering beech forest. On a good day Ngāuruhoe can be seen as well as the older mountains of Tongariro and Pukekaikiore.
Once in the forest, the track descends to Wairere Stream then climbs alongside it, passing Cascade Falls. The forest consists of large mountain beech trees, umbrella ferns and mountain toatoa. Small native birds such as whiteheads, grey warbler and rifleman are commonly seen. From the forest edge the track passes over the Wairere Stream with impressive views of a small narrow gorge.
Taranaki Falls are located at the halfway point of the track and cascade over the edge of an impressive 15,000-year-old lava flow. This walk is great for a day out in the national park as the Taranaki waterfalls is pretty spectacular.
Continuing past Taranaki Falls, the track loops back through open tussock and volcanic terrain, offering expansive views across the surrounding mountains and valleys. Along the way, you may spot alpine flowers in season, such as Mount Cook lily and speargrass, as well as the occasional alpine skink basking on sun-warmed rocks. The combination of forest, waterfalls and open landscapes makes this walk a fantastic way to experience the diverse natural beauty of Tongariro National Park in just a few hours.
