Start this track from Whakapapa Village, on the Taranaki Falls Walking Track.
After reaching Taranaki Falls, the track crosses undulating tussock country and alpine herb fields on a well-formed and marked track.
The track ends at a wide, flat clearing on Tama Saddle, with spectacular views of Lower Tama Lake, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Ruapehu. There is a toilet 10 minutes back down the track, near the junction with the Tongariro Northern Circuit Great Walk.
This track requires less uphill walking and exposure to alpine weather than the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. It can be a great alternative. However, it is still an alpine environment and can be difficult in bad weather. Talk to the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre about the current conditions.
There are no formed tracks down to Lower or Upper Tama Lakes, as the gullies leading down to them are steep and unstable. To ensure these pristine alpine lakes are kept free of weeds, do not touch or swim in the water.
Side trip to Upper Tama Lake viewpoint
Steep and challenging terrain on the side track to Upper Tama Lake viewpoint.
Image: Theo Chapman | DOC
Steep and challenging terrain on the side track to Upper Tama Lake viewpoint.
Image: Theo Chapman | DOC
Time: 35 minutes (one way)
Distance: 1.4 km
Track grade: Advanced tramping track
There is a rough, unformed route from the end of the Tama Lakes Track to Upper Tama Lake viewpoint. This is an advanced tramping track and is much more challenging than the main Tama Lakes Track.
The route climbs steeply up a ridge to a viewpoint of Upper Tama Lake. The track is not formed and is made of loose and uneven rock. It is unstable and slippery.
There is no shelter, the weather changes fast and the wind is often very strong. Low cloud can make it hard to follow the route. In winter, you may need winter alpine skills and equipment due to snow, ice and avalanche risk.