Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023
Submitted by DJ Gillming
Last Updated: 21st Sep 2023
Open
Grunt Factor: 18
Gnarl Factor: 39
16.0km
175m
175m
1126m
Login as a VIP to see driving directions, distance and time.
Front country - easily accessible
Out and Back
Undulating, small hills only
Native bush
Open tussock/grasslands
Volcanic
Moderate Single Track
Average Uphill Gradient: +3.0%
Average Downhill Gradient: -3.0%
Login as a VIP to see the trailhead information.
2:30
Slow
2:00
Moderate
1:15
Fast
A nice easier/shorter option than the out & back route from Whakapapa, to see the sights around this side of Ruapehu. It is well marked, as it joins in to the Round The Mountain Track, so easy to find the way to the modern Waihohonu hut, onwards to see the historic hut, and a slight detour on the way back to see the springs. Be prepared for boggy conditions, wet feet & scoria grit ( whether wet or dry) !! The times stated are moving time; you likely want to allow for extra time to enjoy stopping at the points of interest. Check here for pics & more info.
The historic Old Waihohonu Hut, the flash new hut, and the crystal clear Ohinepango Springs.
Approximately 200m off the Desert Road, there is a carpark for the trailhead.
30 km
20 minutes
Unknown
No
Easy.
Unknown.
Waterproof leggings, Thermal leggings, Lightweight fleece top, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Beanie/thermal headwear, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival bag, Cellphone, Map, Gaiters.
A short enough run that you should manage with BYO, but the new hut should have water or you could also top up in a stream or at the springs.
This is in an alpine environment, so be prepared for changeable conditions at any time of the year! Can be scorching hot in summer, though it can also be very cold & wet , and even snow at any time of the year!
The Chocolate Eclair Shop
https://www.facebook.com/johnnynationschocolateeclairshop/
World Famous ( in Ohakune! and beyond) for their Massive Chocolate Eclairs . They also do an awesome sponge roll & fairy cakes, never skimping on the fresh cream ;)
Unfortunately, only open 1/2 the year, from end of May through autumn.
Trail Legend
Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
You and Desert Road - Waihohonu Huts - Ohinepango Spring
As a VIP member you can record private notes for this trail, see all of your times and more.
Already have an account? Login now
Loved this trail. For so many years drove Desert Rd at 100km marveling at the scenery flash by, but the other day planned to take time to stop run this trail. Great, easy well-marked track, with a very gentle gradient. Do take good gear as weather can change quickly. Not hard or technical, but beautiful countryside.
September 25, 2019
The Wild Things Trail Directory is proudly supported by 
Send to your phone
Scan the below QR code to open this trail on your phone.
Tip: position the QR code in your phone camera screen.
