Grade: Moderate – Difficult allow 1 hour

It is great to be on the flat, but once you have crossed South Crater there is another short climb on an exposed ridge.  The track follows the ridge to Red Crater.

If  you have plenty of time you can make the decision to summit Tongariro, just before reaching the crater, the route heads off to the left. 

The main track continues around Red Crater.  You have spectacular views over the Oturere Valley, Rangipo Desert, Kaimanawa Ranges and down to the emerale lakes,  but it can be a little scary on a windy day.

Red Crater to Blue lake >>>