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The Pinnacles walking track in the Coromandel Forest Park

Coromandel, North Island

The Pinnacles, a must go destination for adventure seekers, trampers who enjoy the challenge following the footsteps of the packhorse route used by kauri bushmen in the 1920’s. The reward is the Pinnacles summit. Your eyes feast on the sweeping views of the Coromandel Peninsula and the limestone cliffs of the Pinnacles. The walk / tramp can be completed in a day by experienced trampers or two days with an overnight at the Pinnacles Lodge. For tips about the Pinnacles check our FAQ section.

For tips on recommended clothing and supplies check North Island ultimate day walks, what to wear, supplies and fitness required. Remember to check the local weather report before departing.

The Pinnacles, a must go destination for adventure seekers, trampers who enjoy the challenge following the footsteps of the packhorse route used by kauri bushmen in the 1920’s. The reward is the Pinnacles summit. Your eyes feast on the sweeping views of the Coromandel Peninsula and the limestone cliffs of the Pinnacles. The walk / tramp can be completed in a day by experienced trampers or two days with an overnight at the Pinnacles Lodge. For tips about the Pinnacles check our FAQ section.

Why go on this tramp?

The jagged toothed sawed pinnacles summit cuts into the skyline. The views along the length of the Coromandel Peninsula, from Mount Moehau to Mount Te Aroha are stunning. Overnight is spectacular with the sunset kissing the horizon as it sets over the Peninsula.

Pinnacles walk highlights

  • As you climb / hike think about the 1920’s and bushmen doing this for their livelihood
  • Revel in the panoramic views from the Pinnacles lookout at 759 metres
  • One of Aotearoa New Zealand’s premier overnight walking tracks
Coromandel Pinnacles at Coromandel Forest Park. Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand
Coromandel Pinnacles at Coromandel Forest Park
View from The Pinnacles Track Hike with blue sky above and person tourist in blue tshirt in the foreground at Coromandel
Pinnacles Track Hike

The Pinnacles trail is also known as the Kauaeranga Kauri Trail. The Department of Conservation manages the Coromandel Forest Park and the Pinnacles walk is within the park boundaries. DOC Kauaeranga Kauri Trail advice on the track is:

Walking options

  • Walk to Pinnacles Hut and summit as a day or overnight walk
  • Walk there and back on the Webb Creek Track (6 – 7 hr 30 min) or complete a circuit using the Webb Creek Track and the Billygoat Track ( 7 – 8 hr 30 min)
  • Sample the track and walk the shorter Billygoat Circuit

Overnight options

Pinnacles Hut

Serviced, booking required.

Facilities and services

  • Cold shower, solar lighting, BBQ, gas cookers and a solid fuel burner
  • A warden is present at all times
  • Water is limited and not always available
  • 80 bunk beds

Check DOC resource for up to date information.

Pinnacles Hut, Coromandel, New Zealand @Doc
Pinnacles Hut, Coromandel @Doc
Rock pinnacles jutting out of the ocean, Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand
Rock pinnacles jutting out of the ocean, Coromandel Peninsula

Check in and out

  • Check in: 2:30 pm
  • Check out: 9 am
  • The kitchen and bunk rooms are closed between 9 am and 2.30 pm. For emergency assistance, try the warden’s hut.

To book online: Bookings are open for stays from 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022 at Book Pinnacles Hut online.

An alternative option is Dancing Creek Camp

The campsite has 4 raised platforms. Each platform can take up to 4 people. Bookings are required. The Pinnacles Hut is a 5-minute walk.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to climb the Pinnacles?

If you are very fit it can be climbed in 3 hours one way. Moderate fitness allows up to 6 – 8 hours for a return trip.

Are the Pinnacles very steep?

In parts it is steep with large spaced stone steps and ladders to climb.

What is distance travelled?

According to the Department of Conservation, the distance to Pinnacles Hut is 6km one way. If you walk the Webb Creek track, the distance is an additional 1km to the summit. If you descend via the Billygoat Track, you will travel a slightly longer distance. This is approximately 14 km in total length.

Kauaeranga Kauri Trail @Doc / Dave Fisher
Kauaeranga Kauri Trail @Doc / Dave Fisher
Kauaeranga Visitor Centre building at Pinnacles Walk, New Zealand
Kauaeranga Visitor Centre building at Pinnacles Walk

Where should I start the walk?

Check the Department of Conservation website for details. A popular entrance point is the Kauaeranga Valley Road End. Follow the Kauaeranga Valley Road past the Department of Conservation Visitor Centre (13km from Thames). You will pass campsites and look for a large car park and signs pointing to the track entrance.

Can I do this walk alone?

Yes, you will actually have lots of company on this well known premier walk as it is very popular. For visitors who want a guided tour check with The Pinnacles Day Tours. The guided tours depart from Coromandel Town early in the morning. The tour is approximately between 9 – 10 hours. This tour does not stay overnight at the Pinnacles.

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