Take a trek to the summit of Raglan’s Sleeping Lady – Mount Karioi. The views from the top are spectacular; on a clear day you can see Mt Taranaki, Pureora, Maungamangero, Te Aroha, Pirongia and Maungatautari. There are two tracks to the summit meaning you can choose to make a crossing or do a return trip either side. If you decide to make the crossing you will need to arrange your own transport to meet you at the other side.
Mt. Karioi walking tracks
Mt Karioi track
This track is the closest to Raglan and is the steeper but more interesting of the two options. Once over the stile at the start of the track it’s all uphill but there are plenty of good vantage points where you can stop and admire the view. After walking through an open grove of kanuka you walk up a grassy slope before gaining the main ridge. Chains and ladders have been installed to help you negotiate the occasional rocky outcrop.At the large rocky bluff the track sidles around to the north for a short distance then climbs steeply back to the ridge. From there it is a 10 minute walk along to the lookout, signposted down a short side track. From the junction it is an hour to the summit along an undulating ridge. The vegetation along this ridge has been beautifully sculptured by the strong prevailing westerly winds.
Getting there
Te Toto Gorge car park on Whaanga Rd, near Raglan.
Time
Car park to lookout: 2 hr 30 min – 3 hr one way. Car park to summit: 3 hr - 3 hr 30 min one way
Map
Mt. Karioi
Wairake Track
This is the shortest route to the summit. You drive to a car park off Ruapuke Road then it’s a 40-minute walk across farmland to the bush edge. From there the track climbs steadily through native forest to the summit. It is not as steep as sections of the Mt Karioi Track.
Getting there
Wairake Track, car park off Ruapuke Rd.
Time
2 – 3 hr one way
Map
Plan and prepare
Remember, weather conditions can change rapidly, especially at higher altitudes. Always carry a change of clothing, wet weather gear and sufficient water and food.
What to expect on a tramping track
Challenging day or multi-day tramping/hiking. Track is mostly unformed with steep, rough or muddy sections
Suitable for people with good fitness. Moderate to high level backcountry skills and experience, including navigation and survival skills required. Track has markers, poles or rock cairns. Expect unbridged stream and river crossings. Tramping/hiking boots required.
