Long summer days are made for slowing the pace and soaking up Rotorua’s natural beauty on foot. From shaded forest trails to refreshing lakeside loops, these scenic walks pair perfectly with simple summer pleasures - swims, picnics and well-earned treats at the end.
1. Okere Falls Track
Walk time: 30–45 minutes (one way)
Difficulty: Easy
Following the Kaituna River through lush native bush, the Okere Falls Track may be short, but it’s packed with excitement. Pause at viewing platforms to watch rafters plunge down the mighty Tutea Falls or look up to spot zipliners flying high above the river. It’s an easy walk with plenty of action - and a great reminder that slowing down doesn’t mean missing out.
2. Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) Loop Track
Walk time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
An easy-going loop around the Blue Lake, this track winds through native bush with glimpses and viewpoints of the lake dotted along the way. Stop where the trail meets the water for a refreshing swim, then finish up by popping across the road to Blue Lake TOP 10 for an ice cream - the perfect way to end a summer walk.
3. Mokopuna Trail, Whakarewarewa (Redwood Forest)
Walk time: 30–40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Gentle, shaded and family-friendly, the Mokopuna Trail is an easy win on warm summer days. The path winds beneath towering redwoods, passing cool forest springs and offering glimpses of the Redwoods Treewalk high above. It’s an easy, unrushed walk that suits all ages. We recommend finishing the walk at the Redwoods isite, where an ice cream or hotdog is a well-earned treat to finish the walk.
4. Maunga Kākaramea (Rainbow Mountain)
Walk time: 1–1.5 hours (return)
Difficulty: Easy–Intermediate
For something a little different, Rainbow Mountain offers a short but memorable walk on a striking geothermal landscape. The trail includes steaming vents, colourful mineral-stained earth and native forest and the summit rewards with expansive views in every direction. Go early or later in the day to avoid the heat and take time at the top to enjoy the unique scenery before heading back.
5. Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Walk time: 1.5–4 hours (depending on route)
Difficulty: Easy–Intermediate
For a walk that feels truly different, Waimangu Volcanic Valley offers a chance to explore a living geothermal landscape at your own pace. Well-formed walking tracks lead down past steaming vents, vibrant geothermal features and regenerating native forest. When you get to the bottom of the trail, there’s also the option to add a guided boat cruise across Lake Rotomahana for a relaxed view of the valley and Mount Tarawera from the water. When you’re finished your walk or cruise, catch the bus back to the top.
6. Tarawera Trail
Walk time: 3–4 hours (one way)
Difficulty: Intermediate
This iconic lakeside trail is all about taking your time. Winding through native forest and along the shores of Lake Tarawera, the trail rewards walkers with peaceful viewpoints and quiet bays along the way. Finish at Hot Water Beach, where you can soak tired feet in naturally heated water or enjoy a refreshing swim - the perfect summer payoff after a longer walk. From here, some walkers choose to camp overnight at nearby Te Rātā Bay, while others opt for a water taxi back across the lake.
