Walking, running and tramping

Today there is an extensive network of tracks and old logging roads in the Akatarawa Forest.  Many of the logging roads were formed over 60 years ago and may be overgrown. Parts of the forest are rugged and isolated, and for your own safety take a copy of Topomap R26 and keep to the marked tracks unless you know the area. Take note of all signs and go with a group of experienced trampers.

Forest roads are used daily for management purposes, and there are many popular mountain bike trails. Please watch out for vehicles and mountain bikers (although with 15,000 hectares there is plenty of room for everyone).

There are many good picnic sites on bush fringes and stream edges. No facilities are provided. The terrain is not generally suitable for people with mountain buggies.

Wilderness camping is available in some parts of the forest. Please contact the park ranger for details of suitable sites, as areas are periodically affected by fallen trees and flooding.

Popular forest walks

Karapoti Gorge

• 3 hours return
• easy

Karapoti Road follows the Akatarawa River west. The road narrows to a single lane track and rises above the river through a bush clad gorge to McGhies Bridge. About 1 km further on you reach a clearing by the river. There are several deep pools suitable for swimming. Watch out for trail bikes.

Mount Titi

• 5 hours return
• moderate/demanding

From Maungakotukutuku Road cross the stream and follow Perhams Road uphill about 6km to reach a T junction with Titi Road. Turn left (east) up Titi Road for a further 3km until a clay road curves off left (north). Head along this track and follow a rough track west to Mount Titi. Return the same way. Watch out for trail bikes.

Experienced trampers may wish to continue north along the ridge to Mount Maunganui, returning to Maungakotukutuku Road down the steep north-west ridge through native forest.