Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve
Discover the vibrant geothermal wonders and panoramic views of Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve, a unique landscape near Rotorua.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the vibrant geothermal wonders and panoramic views of Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve, a unique landscape near Rotorua.
"The Crater Lake is astonishing, and the summit offers stunning panoramic views."
Wear Sun Protection ☀️
Some areas are exposed; wear a hat and sunscreen for comfort during your hike.
Watch for Bees 🐝
Bees can be present on the summit, especially in warmer months. Stay aware of your surroundings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crater Lake
Base of the mountain
Astonishing turquoise waters of the Crater Lake, a must-see geothermal wonder.
Summit Track Views
Summit of Rainbow Mountain
Panoramic vistas from the summit, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Geothermal Activity
Various points along trails
Observe subtle geothermal activity and unique flora as you traverse the hillsides.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Rainbow Mountain
Navigating Rainbow Mountain Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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Wear Sun Protection ☀️
Some areas are exposed; wear a hat and sunscreen for comfort during your hike.
Watch for Bees 🐝
Bees can be present on the summit, especially in warmer months. Stay aware of your surroundings.
Rotorua - what are some cool things to do there that don't break the bank?
Trail Awareness 🚵♀️
Trails are shared with mountain bikers. Be mindful of others on the path.
Car Park Facilities 🚗
Gravel car parks are available. Longdrop toilets are on-site for convenience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sun Protection ☀️
Some areas are exposed; wear a hat and sunscreen for comfort during your hike.
Watch for Bees 🐝
Bees can be present on the summit, especially in warmer months. Stay aware of your surroundings.
Trail Awareness 🚵♀️
Trails are shared with mountain bikers. Be mindful of others on the path.
Car Park Facilities 🚗
Gravel car parks are available. Longdrop toilets are on-site for convenience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the stunning geothermal landscape and the vibrant Crater Lake, calling it an astonishing sight. The Summit Track offers rewarding panoramic views, though some find the summit itself less impressive due to overgrowth and a transmission aerial. Trails are generally good but can be shared with mountain bikers.
"Stunning geothermal landscape near Rotorua. Easy Crater Lakes Walk (30 mins return) however a viewing platform was closed last time I was there.
The more challenging Summit Track (3km, 3 hours return) with amazing panoramic views.
Gravel carparks available.
Longdrop toilets on site."
Binky T
"It is not the most well maintained trail. But it is a good hike overall. There is plenty of flora to investigate. Also, nice lookout to see the colorful cliff face. Once you are on the top the view is stunning. Beware that there are a lot of bees on the summit. Easy to get lost in the view and not notice them."
Prasanna Pilla
"An enjoyable walk that traverses the hillside. Paths are reasonably well maintained though at times are shared with mountain bikers. The view of Crater Lake and its clear turquoise water was a big plus. Small amounts of geothermal activity can be observed. Native trees and bloom were evident during our trip in early December. The summit was pretty average as the giant transmission aerial didn't quite add to the view. Overgrown foliage did obscure some of the view too though this may all be part of mother nature. A small picnic area was located at the top. Having waste bins at the car park and summit may reduce the risk of litter. Wear a hat as some areas can be a tad sun exposed."
T K Khoo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve is located between Rotorua and Taupo. The reserve has gravel car parks available for visitors. It's accessible by car, making it a convenient stop on your journey between these popular North Island destinations.
Yes, Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve is easily accessible from Rotorua. It's a common stop for those traveling between Rotorua and Taupo, offering a chance to stretch your legs and explore unique geothermal landscapes.
Absolutely! Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve is a great option for a day trip from Rotorua. You can combine it with other nearby attractions like Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland for a full day of exploration.
From Rotorua, head south on State Highway 5 towards Taupo. Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve will be on your right. If coming from Taupo, head north on State Highway 5, and it will be on your left. Look for the signs for the scenic reserve.
Public transport options directly to Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle or as part of an organized tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve is generally free. There are no admission fees required to access the trails and enjoy the natural beauty.
Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve is typically open year-round during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times, allowing for flexible visits.
No booking is required for Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve as it is a free public reserve. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
There are no entrance fees for Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve. The car parks and trails are free to use.
While there are no official closing times, it is recommended to visit Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Crater Lakes Walk (30 minutes return) is an easy option, while the Summit Track (3km, 3 hours return) offers more challenging terrain and panoramic views. Both showcase the unique geothermal landscape.
The Summit Track at Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve is approximately 3km and takes about 3 hours to complete return. It's a more strenuous hike with rewarding views.
The trails are reasonably well-maintained, though some sections can be overgrown. Be aware that paths are sometimes shared with mountain bikers.
You can observe small amounts of geothermal activity along the trails, adding to the unique landscape. The Crater Lake itself is a significant geothermal feature.
The Crater Lakes Walk is suitable for families due to its shorter duration and easier terrain. The Summit Track is more challenging and may be better suited for older children or those accustomed to hiking.
📸 📸 Photography
The Crater Lake offers stunning turquoise waters for photography. The summit provides panoramic views, though foliage can sometimes obscure the vista. Capture the colorful cliff faces and unique flora along the trails.
Yes, there are many opportunities for photography. The vibrant colors of the Crater Lake and the expansive views from the summit are particularly photogenic.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the colors of the landscape. Consider visiting during the 'golden hours' around sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting, though be mindful of daylight hours for safety.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Department of Conservation for current rules regarding drone operation in scenic reserves to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and landscapes. A standard zoom lens will be versatile for various shots. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the water and sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with older children or those who enjoy a bit more of a challenge, the Summit Track offers a more adventurous experience. Ensure everyone is prepared for a longer hike and be mindful of the shared trails with mountain bikers. Pack plenty of water and snacks, and keep an eye out for the unique flora along the way.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to observe native flora and subtle geothermal activity. The unique landscape, characterized by colorful cliffs and the striking Crater Lake, offers a different kind of natural beauty compared to more conventional mountain hikes. Remember to wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for varying trail conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Rainbow Mountain
The more demanding Summit Track is a 3km, 3-hour return hike that leads to the peak of Rainbow Mountain. This trail provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making the effort worthwhile. Be prepared for a more strenuous climb, and remember to stay aware of potential bee activity, especially during warmer months.
It's important to note that some trails are shared with mountain bikers, so hikers should remain vigilant. While generally maintained, certain sections might be overgrown, and wearing appropriate footwear is recommended for navigating the varied terrain.
Geothermal Wonders and Flora
Beyond the geothermal features, the reserve is home to a variety of native trees and flora. During your hike, especially in early December, you might witness native blooms adding splashes of color to the hillsides. This natural beauty, combined with the geothermal elements, creates a distinctive environment worth exploring.
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