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The Mount Ruapehu Crater Climb is a must-do for any adventurous traveler visiting the North Island of New Zealand. Located in the Tongariro National Park, the volcano is home to the largest ski fields in New Zealand and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

The walk starts at the Whakapapa Ski Field, where today we took the SkyWaka chairlift to the top of the mountain. From there, the guides said it was a 5-hour round trip hike to the crater rim.

Route Options

There are two summer routes up to Mount Ruapehu Crater Lake, both of which are unmarked.

The first route is via Knoll Ridge and the second is via Restful Ridge.

It’s recommended to hike the knoll ridge route in early summer, when there’s still snow on the trail.

Because we hiked in late summer (February), we opted for the Restful Ridge route. 

After leaving the cafe we followed the Knoll Ridge chairlifts. From here we made a right hand turn to access Restful Ridge. Due to the snow it took us a while to get onto the ridge as we had to go around a large bluff.

As you climb, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Tongariro National Park. The climb is a challenging but rewarding experience, and it’s a great way to get an up-close look at one of New Zealand’s most impressive natural wonders. Once you reach the crater rim, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking panorama of the crater lake and the surrounding peaks. The lake is a vibrant turquoise color and is surrounded by steaming vents and fumaroles, which add to the otherworldly atmosphere.

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It is important to note that the climb is only open during the summer months and the weather conditions are unpredictable, so it’s essential to check the forecast and to be prepared accordingly. It’s also important to be aware of the volcano’s activity level and to check the alerts provided by the Tongariro National Park before attempting the climb.

The volcano has a rich history, Mount Ruapehu is an active volcano and has erupted twice in the last century, in 1945 and 1995 respectively. The last eruption caused significant damage to the ski fields and the surrounding area, and it’s a reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature.

In conclusion, the Mount Ruapehu Crater Climb walk is a challenging but rewarding experience that offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and an up-close look at one of New Zealand’s most impressive natural wonders. It’s important to be prepared for the unpredictable weather, check the volcano’s activity level, and take necessary precautions for your safety. The climb is a great way to spend a summer day in New Zealand and make memories that will last a lifetime.