The Lake Surprise Walk is an uncrowded, fun alpine walk on Mt. Ruapheu. The panoramic views and waterfalls along this walk are awesome.
My first explorations of Mt. Ruapehu were always during the winter to go snowboarding. Since those first trips I’ve been back several times during the summer and have really enjoyed exploring the mountain. The south side up from Ohakune is very different from the area around Whakapapa village and is well worth a visit. This short walk is a fun way to explore the less crowded Turoa side and feel a bit adventurous as you wander down the lava flows and cross streams.
Lake Surprise Walk – Highlights and Logistics
Highlights – Waterfalls, panoramic views, and Mt. Ruapehu
Location – Central North Island
Difficulty – Easy/Medium
Length – 9 km round trip, 4 – 5 hours
About the Lake Surprise Walk
The trailhead is located about 15 km up the Ohakune Mountain Road. There is a small sign and pullout, but no big car park and trailhead so be sure to know what you are looking for. This is part of the Round the Mountain track.
The track starts by dropping off the road to the north. The beginning of the trail is above treeline and traverses a rocky, moon like landscape. This whole time the views are fantastic as you are above the trees and looking up you can see the mountain and numerous waterfalls, while the views away from the mountain stretch far.
The walk follows a poled route across this rocky world undulating up and down. The track arrives at a series of lava flows that are bisected by creeks.
Pick your way down the different fins of rock, trying to find the most fun or easiest route.
You will have to cross the creek, so either pick a good spot to keep your feet dry or just stop and take a dip in the freezing pools at one of the small falls.
After the lava flows, the track crosses some flatter ground and arrives at Manguturuturu hut, which can make a nice break point. After the hut you will have to cross the unbridged Manguturuturu stream. Be careful as it can be high during or just after rains.
After the stream, the tack climbs up through beech forest and tussock before arriving at a shelf that holds Lake Surprise. On a nice day, this small lake has great reflections of the mountain.
Then return the same way you came.
My Insider’s Tips to the Lake Surprise Walk
You can turn this from a day walk into an overnight by staying at Manguturuturu hut. The hut is located about the bush line, may be small, but has stunning views up towards the mountain. This makes a nice overnight for families or for others who want to get out and spend more time on the mountain.
On a sunny day, the numerous pools along the lava flows make great spots to take a dip and cool off. Then you can lie out on the heated up rocks and warm back up before carrying back to the carpark.