Highlights include stunning native bush with views of the Tongariro River below.
These easy short walks starting from the Urchin campsite will each take you 20 - 30 minutes.
The tracks begin at the Urchin campsite which is located 3km along Kaimanawa Road. Kaimanawa Road is off SH1, 15 km south of Turangi.
Find out everything you need to plan for these tracks on Plan My Walk
Kaimanawa Forest Loop Walk
A gently sloping, easy walk through beautiful native bush. There is a notable variety of forest types to be found on this short walk.
| Distance | 1.1km |
| Time | 20 minutes |
| Physical rating | Easy |
| Direction | Loop |
| Dog access | Dogs with a DOC permit only. Contact the Turangi DOC office to obtain a permit |
Urchin Campsite to Pillars of Hercules
A pleasant walk through kamahi forest with views of the Tongariro River below. Return via same track, or along the road.
The Pillars of Hercules:This deep gorge has a complex history of formation. The river has eroded a narrow channel through ancient lava flows (350,000 years and older) of andesite and ignimbrite rock.
You can view the spectacular ravine from a 40 m long suspension bridge, which you can reach via the walking track, or alternatively from the car park 2 km along Kaimanawa Road.
This feature is even more spectacular from the air as the Tongariro River can be seen to suddenly narrow as it passes through this chasm.
| Distance | 1.5km |
| Time | 30 minutes (one way) |
| Physical rating | Easy |
| Direction | Return via same track |
| Dog access | Dogs with a DOC permit only. Contact the Turangi DOC office to obtain a permit |