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Hiking New Zealand's Tongariro Alpine Crossing vs Routeburn Track

Compare two of New Zealand's most iconic hikes: the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and the Routeburn Track. Which is right for you?

Tongariro Alpine Crossing The Mordor Hike

Okay, let's dive straight in! The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is famous, and for good reason. Think Mordor-esque landscapes, volcanic craters, and emerald lakes. It's a one-day hike, clocking in at around 19.4 kilometers (12 miles). The terrain is challenging, with steep climbs and descents, but the views are seriously worth it. This hike is doable for those with decent fitness, but it's not a walk in the park.

What to Expect on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

The trail starts relatively easy, winding through tussock grasslands. Then, BAM! You hit the Devil's Staircase – a steep climb that tests your stamina. After that, you're rewarded with views of Mount Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom for LOTR fans) and Mount Tongariro. The highlight is undoubtedly the Emerald Lakes, vibrant turquoise pools nestled in volcanic craters. The descent can be tough on the knees, so trekking poles are highly recommended.

Gear Recommendations for Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Because this is a day hike, you need to bring everything with you. Here's a few recommendations:

  • Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are a must. Consider the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX (around $160). They provide excellent ankle support and grip. Alternative: Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof (around $130), a reliable and comfortable option.
  • Backpack: A 20-30 liter backpack is ideal. The Osprey Talon 22 (around $130) is lightweight and comfortable, with plenty of storage. Alternative: Deuter Speed Lite 20 (around $100), a minimalist option for experienced hikers.
  • Trekking Poles: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork trekking poles (around $140) are a great investment for added stability and reducing strain on your knees. Alternative: Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber trekking poles (around $40), a budget-friendly option.
  • Rain Gear: The weather can change quickly, so pack a waterproof jacket and pants. Arc'teryx Beta AR Jacket (around $600) is a high-quality, durable option. Alternative: Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket (around $120), a more affordable and eco-friendly choice.
  • Sunscreen and Hat: The sun can be intense, even on cloudy days.

Routeburn Track The Fiordland Beauty

Now, let's talk about the Routeburn Track. This is a multi-day hike, typically taking 2-4 days to complete. It's located in Fiordland National Park, and the scenery is breathtaking – think lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and towering mountains. The Routeburn is shorter than the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, at around 33 kilometers (20.5 miles), but the multi-day nature requires more planning and preparation.

What to Expect on the Routeburn Track

The Routeburn Track offers a more immersive wilderness experience. You'll hike through ancient beech forests, cross swing bridges over rushing rivers, and climb to alpine meadows with stunning views. Highlights include the Routeburn Falls, Lake Mackenzie, and Harris Saddle. You'll be staying in huts along the way, which require booking in advance.

Gear Recommendations for Routeburn Track

Because this is a multi-day hike, you'll need more gear and a larger backpack.

  • Hiking Boots: Same as Tongariro Alpine Crossing - Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are a must. Consider the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX (around $160). They provide excellent ankle support and grip. Alternative: Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof (around $130), a reliable and comfortable option.
  • Backpack: A 50-65 liter backpack is essential. The Osprey Aura AG 65 (around $300) is a comfortable and well-ventilated option for women. The Osprey Atmos AG 65 (around $300) is the men's version. Alternative: Gregory Baltoro 65 (around $320) or Deva 60 (around $320 for women), known for their excellent load-carrying ability.
  • Sleeping Bag: A lightweight sleeping bag is crucial. Sea to Summit Spark SpIII (around $400) is a down-filled bag that packs down small and is warm enough for most conditions. Alternative: Therm-a-Rest Questar 20 (around $300), a synthetic option that performs well in damp conditions.
  • Cooking System: If you plan on cooking your own meals, bring a lightweight stove and cookware. MSR PocketRocket 2 stove (around $50) is a popular and reliable choice. Alternative: Jetboil Flash Cooking System (around $130), for faster boiling times.
  • Water Filter/Purifier: Essential for safe drinking water. Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter (around $40) is lightweight and easy to use. Alternative: LifeStraw Personal Water Filter (around $20), a simple and affordable option.
  • Headlamp: Black Diamond Spot 350 headlamp (around $40) is a bright and reliable option.

Tongariro vs Routeburn Which Hike is Right for You

So, which hike should you choose? Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

  • Time Commitment: Tongariro is a one-day hike, while Routeburn is a multi-day trek. If you're short on time, Tongariro is the better option.
  • Fitness Level: Both hikes require a decent level of fitness. Tongariro is more physically demanding in a single day, while Routeburn requires endurance over multiple days.
  • Scenery: Both hikes offer stunning scenery, but the landscapes are different. Tongariro is volcanic and dramatic, while Routeburn is lush and forested.
  • Experience: If you're new to hiking, Tongariro might be a good starting point. Routeburn requires more planning and preparation due to its multi-day nature.
  • Budget: Tongariro is generally cheaper, as you don't need to pay for hut accommodations.

Detailed Gear Comparison Hiking Boots

Let's take a closer look at those hiking boots. You really need something comfortable and waterproof. We mentioned the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX and the Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof. The Salomon's are a little lighter and offer slightly better ankle support. The Merrell's are known for being comfortable right out of the box, often needing less break-in time. Price-wise, they're pretty comparable. If you're doing a lot of scrambling over rocks, the Salomon's might be a better bet. If comfort is your top priority, the Merrell's are a solid choice.

Detailed Gear Comparison Backpacks

For backpacks, the Osprey Aura/Atmos AG 65 and the Gregory Baltoro/Deva 65 are top contenders. The Osprey's Anti-Gravity suspension system is incredibly comfortable, making it feel like you're carrying less weight. The Gregory's are known for their robust construction and excellent load-carrying ability. They can handle heavier loads more comfortably. The Gregory packs also tend to have more organizational pockets. If you prioritize comfort, go with the Osprey. If you need to carry a lot of gear, the Gregory is a better choice.

Booking and Permits

Remember to book your huts well in advance for the Routeburn Track, especially during peak season (October to April). You'll also need to obtain a permit. For the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, parking can be limited, so consider using a shuttle service.

Enjoy the Hike

No matter which hike you choose, New Zealand's natural beauty is sure to impress. Just be prepared, stay safe, and enjoy the adventure!