The track to Soda Springs follows Mangatepopo Stream and is part of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. We recommend visitors book to use the Tongariro Alpine Crossing Track. 

Ngauruhoe’s most recent lava flows appear dark in contrast to the older flows which are slowly revegetating. Under the headwall of the Mangatepopo valley, these cold water springs create a small oasis of lush yellow mountain buttercups and white foxgloves in summer.

The track starts at the Mangatepopo roadend, 13.4 km from Whakapapa Village on SH 47.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing booking system

We recommend visitors to the Soda Springs Walk book to use the Tongariro Alpine Crossing Track.

Read about why a booking is needed and sustainable visitor management for Tongariro. 

Mangatepopo car park

Parking at Mangatepopo car park is limited. It is first come, first served and cannot be booked. There is a 4 hour parking limit for visitors to the Mangatepopo Valley.

There is no parking available for track users completing the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in full. 

No drones

Unauthorised use of drones is prohibited. You must have a permit to fly a drone.

DOC does not generally approve permits to fly drones in this national park and we do not recommend you apply for one.

Using drones in national parks