You'll love the Blue Lake Track, a scenic 5.5 km loop around the stunning Lake Tikitapu. The easy walk takes you through lush native bush and exotic conifers, with sandy beaches perfect for swimming. Access is simple, with parking available near the lake and stunning views from the lookout car park. Along the way, you'll find picnic tables and recreational facilities, making it ideal for families. Dogs are welcome, too! Make sure to take in the cultural significance of the area while you explore. There's a lot more to discover about this beautiful track waiting for you.

Major Highlights

• The Blue Lake Track is a 5.5 km loop, offering an easy walking experience through native bush and exotic conifers.
• Scenic views can be enjoyed from the lookout car park, enhancing the experience before starting the track.
• Sandy beaches at both ends of the track provide perfect spots for swimming and relaxation.
• The track is accessible year-round, with facilities like picnic tables, public toilets, and clean drinking water available.
• The area's cultural significance is highlighted by the Māori history associated with Lake Tikitapu and Lake Rotokakahi.

Location and Access

If you're planning a visit to the Blue Lake Track, you'll find it conveniently located on Tarawera Road, just 9 km south-east of Rotorua. This area is part of the stunning Rotorua lakes district, nestled between Lake Rotorua and Lake Tarawera, with the serene Lake Rotokākahi (Green Lake) nearby.

You can easily access the track via SH 30 from Rotorua or Whakatane, making it a straightforward drive.

When you arrive, you'll have several parking options. The Rotorua Waterski Club car park accommodates larger vehicles, boats, and trailers, while a car park opposite Lake Tikitapu Campground provides a closer access point to the track.

For a picturesque start, the Blue and Green Lake lookout car park offers both parking and spectacular scenic views of the lakes.

Once parked, you'll enjoy a quick walk along Tikitapu Road, a wide access road that adds to your outdoor experience. Just remember to exercise caution along the 800 m stretch without a barrier from oncoming traffic.

With these convenient parking options and breathtaking scenery, you're all set for a memorable adventure on the Blue Lake Track.

Track Details

The Blue Lake Track is a delightful 5.5 km loop that offers an easy and enjoyable walking experience around Lake Tikitapu. This well-formed track features a flat terrain, making it suitable for walkers and runners alike.

You'll find it meandering through beautiful native bush and exotic conifers of Whakarewarewa Forest, providing a serene escape into nature. As you traverse the trail, you'll encounter several viewpoints that reveal stunning vistas of the lake.

The track also drops down to sandy beaches at each end, giving you a perfect spot for a swim or a relaxing break. With a total elevation gain of just 73 meters, the terrain is mostly flat and undulating, ensuring that there are no significant climbs or descents.

Trail accessibility is excellent, as the track is open year-round, welcoming everyone—including dogs on leads. If you're pressed for time, you can opt for the shorter Tikitapu Nature Walk, which takes about 30 minutes to complete.

Facilities and Amenities

When planning your visit to the Blue Lake Track, you'll find a variety of facilities and amenities designed to enhance your outdoor experience. The recreation facilities include a children's playground, electric barbecues on timers, and a boat ramp, making it perfect for family outings and water sports enthusiasts.

If you're looking to relax, the ski lane and water slides offer fun activities for all ages.

For dining options, picnic tables are conveniently located near the beach areas at both ends of the lake, allowing you to enjoy meals while soaking in the beautiful scenery.

There's also an accessible lookout point for stunning views, making it a great spot to unwind after your walk.

You won't have to worry about hygiene either, as public toilets, rubbish disposal, and dog waste facilities are available throughout the area.

The park is well-maintained, and clean drinking water is easily accessible.

Plus, with ample parking on-site and mobility access, getting to the Blue Lake Track is a breeze.

You're all set for a memorable day in nature!

Environmental and Safety Considerations

How can you enjoy the beauty of the Blue Lake Track while ensuring the environment remains protected? By following visitor guidelines and being mindful of habitat protection, you can help preserve this stunning area. Respect the natural surroundings and minimize your impact.

The Blue Lake area is part of the Tikitapu Scenic Reserve, focusing on protecting rare native mistletoe and birds. Increased human activity can lead to erosion and disrupt these habitats. Regular track maintenance and pest control help maintain both visitor safety and ecosystem health.

Points of Interest

With a commitment to protecting the environment, visitors can now explore the myriad points of interest along the Blue Lake Track.

This scenic loop offers a blend of natural beauty and rich cultural significance, making it a perfect outing for everyone.

Here are three must-visit points of interest:

1. Blue and Green Lake Lookout****

Accessible from the car park, this lookout features a multi-flight staircase that leads you to stunning views of Lake Tikitapu and Lake Rotokakahi.

You'll be captivated by the contrasting blue and green waters.

2. Swimming Beaches

Located on the southern edge of Lake Tikitapu, these sandy beaches are ideal for summer picnics and swimming.

The grassy areas nearby make it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal.

3. Māori History

Learn about the cultural significance of the lakes.

Lake Tikitapu is named after a sacred greenstone necklace, while Lake Rotokakahi holds deep spiritual importance with a burial island, Motutawa.

Exploring these points of interest enriches your experience on the Blue Lake Track, connecting you to its natural and cultural treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Dogs Allowed on the Blue Lake Track?

Yes, dogs are allowed on the track under dog-friendly policies. However, you must follow leash regulations, keeping your dog on a leash at all times, while ensuring they don't disturb other users.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit?

Wondering when to visit? Spring offers mild weather and vibrant seasonal activities, perfect for exploring. You'll enjoy less crowded paths and stunning nature, making it an ideal time to experience everything the area has to offer.

Are There Guided Tours Available for the Track?

There aren't specific guided tours for the track, but you can explore guided nature experiences in the area. These often highlight local wildlife and enhance your understanding of the stunning surroundings while enjoying the scenic views.

Can I Cycle on the Blue Lake Track?

You can't cycle on the Blue Lake Track, as it's primarily for walking. Given the track conditions and cycling etiquette, consider exploring nearby mountain bike trails for a more suitable cycling experience.

Is Fishing Allowed at Lake Tikitapu Year-Round?

Fishing at Lake Tikitapu's serene waters is allowed year-round, but you'll need to follow specific fishing regulations. Use the best bait, like scented artificial lures, to attract your catch while respecting local rules.

Conclusion

As you wrap up your adventure on the Blue Lake Track, you'll realize it's more than just a walk; it's a journey through nature's vibrant canvas. With stunning views and serene surroundings, this 5.5km loop around Lake Tikitapu invites you to breathe deeply and soak in the beauty. So lace up your shoes, embrace the fresh air, and let the tranquility of this picturesque trail rejuvenate your spirit. You won't want to miss a moment!