Touted as New Zealand’s best one-day hike and ranked as one of the best in the world, the Tongario Alpine Crossing is difficult 19.4 km (12 mile) track through stunning volcanic terrain.
There are multiple side trips off the main track, the most difficult but rewarding being the summit of Mt Ngauruhoe. This unmarked ascent takes roughly 3 hours to complete and adds 6km to the journey.
All in all I hiked 26 km (16 miles) over 8.5 hours and have plenty of pictures and blisters to show for it.
Jake – this is incredible. So the hike was worth every sore muscle and blister! Proud of you. Mom
My carcass would be drying up somewhere on that rocky ascent. I just know I would have croaked and nobody would carry my body off the mountain!
You would think that you might not be on earth in a couple of these pics! Like the differences in color of the soil and the topography is great!! Love it all!!!!