Last Updated: 15th May 2025
Taranaki North Route
Last Updated: 15th May 2025
Grunt Factor: 50 ?
Gnarl Factor: 83 ?
12.5km
1745m
1745m
2518m
Last Updated: 15th May 2025
Last Updated: 15th May 2025
Grunt Factor: 50 ?
Gnarl Factor: 83 ?
12.5km
1745m
1745m
2518m
Back country - remote
Out and Back
Mountainous
Native bush
Open tussock/grasslands
Open ridges/tops
Gravel Road
Moderate Single Track
Technical Single Track
Untracked / Route only
Average Uphill Gradient: +29.2%
Average Downhill Gradient: -29.2%
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8:0000
Slow
5:30
Moderate
3:15
Fast
Leaving from the Egmont Visitor Centre follow the boardwalk up to the locked gate cross the stile and follow the gravel road. Depending on fitness levels this part of the climb can be enjoyed with some good up hill running.
Once you hit the “Puffer” (the concrete vehicle track), the climb steepens considerably. At the 4km mark you will pass Tahurangi Lodge 1492m, the lodge is private owned so will be locked but there is a small shelter for public use. Remember there is no water supply so carry all you need with you.
Travel past under the hut heading up into the “Hongi Valley“and up through the rocks. A series of steps brings you up out of the valley and on to the start of the scoria slope. Follow the poles up the face to the start of the “Lizard” and begin the final ascent to the summit following the poles up through the scoria and rocks. If there is snow on the mountain it’s advisable to put your spikes on as it can get very icy at this height and a fall at this part of the mountain could result in major injury or worse. Cross the permanent snow/ice in the crater to the final climb to the summit. 2518m of amazing views!, Enjoy the moment.
Descend following the same route and enjoy some great downhill running all the way back to the car park.
This trail includes the peak Taranaki Maunga.
Dormant volcano, stunning views
If you know of any public toilets near the trail start or on the route, please login and then let us know so we can update this section.
There is limited parking at Mt Egmont visitor centre so a early start is advised especially during the busy holiday months. There is a shuttle service that leaves from New Plymouth.
19 km
21 minutes
No
No
Moderate.
Follow signs away from Mt Egmont Visitor Centre. Once you pass Tahurangi lodge follow the marker polls.
Very patchy.
Waterproof leggings, Thermal leggings, Short-sleeved thermal top, Long-sleeved thermal top, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Gloves, Beanie/thermal headwear, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival bag, Cellphone, Map, Headtorch and spare batteries, Crampons / microspikes (for winter conditions), Gaiters
No guaranteed water supply. Carry all your water for the day from leaving your car.
The mountain can become very dangerous during the winter months while under heavy snow and during Spring as it melts during avalanche season.
Unless you are an experienced mountaineer the best time to access the mountain is during summer months between December and April.
Be prepared for all weather conditions, a clear warm day can change quickly. Carry micro spikes as even in summer there can be snow on the ground.
The scoria and rocks are volcanic so can be very abrasive on the skin with slips and falls ect.
Kamahi Cafe
North Egmont visitor centre
https://buylocainz.com
At the end of your run before leaving.
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Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
Tag the summit - goes without saying! Route variations on the high scree slopes are fine - pick your own route!
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An absolute classic, the hardest part of this route will be getting good weather so you can enjoy the expansive views from the top!
December 31, 2022
These overlap with this trail to some degree. You may wish to combine them but please note that to qualify for FKTs on these runs you should record a separate activity for each.
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