Walks

Saturday, 13 April 2024

Grade 4

Nearest Town: Waihi

Registration Region: Waihi

Duration: 4.5 - 5 Hours

Start Time: 9:00 am - Karangahake Gorge Main Carpark, by swing bridge

Cost: Donation

The Mount Karangahake walk is a walk around 9km.  The walk starts on the gorge floor and finishes at the summit of Mount Karangahake, over 500 metres above the Waitawheta River running through the Karangahake Gorge.

From the car park above, you’ll be able to see the summit you’re about to climb.

Crossing the first swing bridge, head towards the green signs where several tracks diverge. We’ll be taking the upper right-hand trail, the Scotsman Gully track.  This is a short trail less than 1km long that follows a small stream which you’ll cross via some large rocks. One stream crossing here.  It’s a nice intro to the walk.

After the Scotsman Gully turn left onto the 4WD path. After 800 metres or so, you’ll see a right-hand turn which we take. This part of the trail is in good condition, you can feel the forest closing in around you.

The incline is starting to get a little steeper on this section.  You’ll see a track splitting off to the left.  We carry on straight. Continuing on up to the summit, taking in the stunning views as far as the eyes can see towards the Coromandel and Kaimai.  The plains are vast and never ending - yet the ocean is visible in the distance.  We have a well deserved food and drink break with time to take photos of the views.  On our return we will return the same way.  This is much safer on the knees and not so slippery if we have had wet weather.   

Medium to high level of fitness required to be able to keep up with the group. Track experience preferred. It is a constant climb and will test your cardio.

Please bring suitable walking shoes, walking poles recommended, jacket and food for our lunch break at the Summit. 

There are 25 spaces only for this trip so be in quick!

Organiser: Auckland Baptist Tramping Club