Crater Lake Basin Experience

Enjoy lunch at the spectacular Crater Lake at the summit of Mt Ruapehu then be guided down through the best terrain available on the day. Our guides all have many years of experience at Ruapehu so are experts at finding those secret untouched powder stashes for you...even days after the last snowfall! All safety related equipment and a gourmet lunch are supplied so all you need to bring is a smile, camera and appropriate ski/board equipment and clothing.

The day begins at either the Giant Café at Turoa or the Knoll Ridge Café at Whakapapa where you'll meet your guide and get kitted up with all the equipment you need for the day. Then it’s off to do a warm-up run, during which your guide will assess your skiing or boarding ability in order to tailor the day appropriately. From there the only way is up as you hike from the top lift to the Crater Lake where you'll enjoy a gourmet lunch and stunning views before skiing/riding back down through the best terrrain available. 

Availability

There are guided trips into the backcountry operating every day that the upper mountain is open, leaving from both Turoa and Whakapapa Ski Areas.

Duration

5 hours return

Ability

Strong intermediate to advanced skiers and boarders.

Cost

$185 per person including lunch

Bookings

If you have any specific questions, wish to customise a trip or are curious about the current backcountry conditions please email Mike at bcguide@mtruapehu.com. We are happy to design a trip to your requirements.

For bookings please contact our customer services departments:

A non-refundable $100 deposit will be required to secure a booking. If the mountain is closed or a trip unable to proceed then a refund will be given. A minimum number of 2 people is required for each adventure. Maximum number of 10 people.