Mountain guides will be with you every step of your way, so you don’t have to have any alpine experience. You can trek the Alpine Crossing in winter if you have experience in alpine terrain and crampon hiking. It is advisable to go on a fully guided trek with an experienced guide. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing doesn’t require any mountain climbing, but it is a pleasant walk in the park. Whether attempting the crossing in winter or summer, with or without a guide, you’ll need a decent level of fitness and be in good health.

He geared the pace of the hike to the group and together we had a great time. I would strongly recommend a guide hike with Stewart. The shoulder months can see snow, ice, and winter conditions. Some years, there is a lot of snow and some years, there is very little.

• Clear weather will allow you to see the mountains in a spectacular way. Snow makes everything seem magical.
• Our guide Stewart from Adrift Outdoor Adventures and two others began the hike.
• This crossing is your responsibility, so take care of yourself.
• Being a solo traveller, I paid for the price of 2 people, to go on the sunset guided walk with Adrift.
• In the winter, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a difficult but magnificent trekking route that traverses through snow and an avalanche zone in the heart of National Park.

Medical conditions such as high/low blood pressure, heart conditions, epilepsy and chronic asthma may prevent you from doing the crossing. Each should be taken on a case-by-case basis, and your guide will ask you to sign a form stating you are fit enough to make the trek. At least three layers of clothing are required, with thermals underneath for warmth. It is recommended to wear wind and waterproof trousers and jackets. a hat and gloves.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is rated as the best one-day hike in New Zealand. You will find stunning views as you trek across volcanic alpine landscapes with dramatic contrasts such as steaming vents and glacial valleys, ancient volcano flows, vibrant crater lakes, and steaming lava flows. When it comes to the specialised gear like crampons and an ice axe, the good news is if you use a guided tour, they will generally have hiking equipment for you to use – always check with the first. Crampons and ice axes are required and our guides are there to show you how to use them safely. No alpine experience is required when undertaking a guided trip. A guided trip is recommended for those who are not familiar with winter hiking in alpine terrain.

The Tongariro Crossing can be dangerously alpine. Experienced guides will be able help you navigate these conditions, if they do occur. They can provide all the assistance you need, including expert guidance, transport, and specialized gear such as rain jackets, fleece tops, rain jackets, and backpacks. According to the guides — who walk this magic 19.4 kilometres pretty much every day — we had happened to luck into an exceptional day. You don’t have to worry, this is where you can live out your staunch mountain climber fantasies. Take the challenge of trekking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in winter by organising your trek through Adrift Guided Outdoor Activities. Read more about Tongarirocrossing.com weather here. Adrift will provide all the gear and equipment you need, as well as all the attention and safety tips you need during the crossing.

Even if you’re an active person, a guided walk is a good option for safety and comfort. Many people hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, but it isn’t easy. It’s full of steep climbs, and, being alpine, prone to unpredictable weather. You can get all the gear — Not every household has spare crampons and ice axes for every member of the family. They’ve got a room filled with jackets, boots, gloves and all for people who don’t have all the equipment.

This creates another contrast and can be very beautiful. Although November has been quieter over the years, this is rapidly changing. My second favourite month to do the Crossing is April. I love the crispness and freshness of Autumn.

aged between 14 and mid 70’s and Stewart was a guiding light to encourage and assist us through. As a calm, experienced, and thoughtful guide, we would highly recommend him. With love from the 5 Turtles, Stewart, our guardian angel, thanks so much. Being a solo traveller, I paid for the price of 2 people, to go on the sunset guided walk with Adrift. I was on my own but part of a group of 15 customers and two guides from Adrift.

The harsh terrain and extreme weather have resulted in this track having the highest number of search-and-rescues in New Zealand. You will not find clean drinking water along the route so make sure you bring at least 2 litres of water. And if there’s no clean drinking water, you’re certainly not going to find a McDonalds, so bring food, preferably the high-energy variety. Remember, safety is paramount, and you should always listen to experience. During the winter months, this is usually considered the point at where your guide will decide if everyone can continue. The steam and volcanic gases that emerge from some parts of this active volcano are even more fascinating amongst the contrast of the winter snow.