Silica Rapids
A small rapids where minerals deposited by the stream form cream-colored terraces. A loop of about 2.5 hours passes through forest and alpine wetlands.
The Silica Rapids track is about 7 km long, with a loop taking about 2.5 hours, starting above Whakapapa Village. It first crosses beech forest and streams, then reaches the rapids. Water rich in aluminosilicate minerals has deposited white-to-cream-yellow terraces on the rock bed, standing out sharply against the reddish-brown rocks around them. On the return, the trail crosses open alpine meadows with views back toward Ruapehu. The walk is easy, and entry is free.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Whakapapa Village & Visitor Centre
- Whakapapa Ski Area & Sky Waka
- Taranaki Falls
- Tawhai Falls (Gollum's Pool)
- Mount Ruapehu
- Tama Lakes
- Tūroa Ski Area
- Mangawhero Falls