Last updated July 2026
The Quarry Lookout Track is a 4.8 km moderate walking route in Whakarewarewa Forest (The Redwoods) that starts at the Redwoods Visitor Centre and climbs through varied plantation forest to a viewpoint overlooking an old rhyolite quarry, the redwood canopy, Lake Rotorua and the city. It is marked with green arrows and serves as an extension of the easier Waitawa Walk, adding a steady climb and rewarding outlook. Sturdy footwear and reasonable fitness are recommended for the ascent on uneven forest surfaces. The track is free to use with free parking available at the visitor centre on Long Mile Road.
Practical Information
| Distance | 4.8 km |
| Time | Approximately 1–1.5 hours |
| Grade | Moderate — requires reasonable fitness; some steady climbing |
| Trail marker colour | Green |
| Start / Finish | Redwoods Visitor Centre, Long Mile Road, Rotorua |
| Footwear | Sturdy walking shoes or boots recommended |
| Cost | Free |
| Parking | Free at the Redwoods Visitor Centre |
About Quarry Lookout Track
The Quarry Lookout Track begins by following the Waitawa Walk through the Redwood Memorial Grove and across the boardwalk over the thermal pond before branching off to ascend the Tokorangi face of the forest. The climb passes through mature Douglas fir, European larch, walnut and various eucalyptus species that remain from earlier experimental plantings. At the high point, the route reaches the quarry lookout with panoramic views across the redwood canopy and out to Lake Rotorua and Rotorua city.
The old rhyolite quarry visible from the lookout dates from Rotorua’s early development period and adds historical interest to the viewpoint. The spot is reasonably exposed on clear days and provides a natural rest point before the return journey. Walkers can either retrace their steps or follow the maintained gravel Quarry Road back to the visitor centre car park for a varied descent that avoids repeating the steeper sections.
The track crosses several distinct forest zones within its 4.8 km length. The lower redwood and boardwalk sections offer the most dramatic scenery, while the mid and upper sections through Douglas fir and mixed plantation species provide quieter stretches that are often less busy. The route connects with other trails in Whakarewarewa Forest, including the longer Tokorangi Pa Track that shares part of the initial climb.
Route Options and Descent
From the lookout, the most direct return follows the ascent route back to the Waitawa Walk and the visitor centre. The alternative Quarry Road option provides a loop-style finish on a gravel forest road, adding variety and reducing repetition of the uphill sections. Both options return walkers to the starting point at the Redwoods Visitor Centre.
Forest Character and Views
Whakarewarewa Forest features a mix of Californian coast redwoods and other exotic species planted in the early 20th century. The Quarry Lookout Track highlights this diversity, moving from the iconic redwood grove through quieter conifer and eucalypt stands to the elevated viewpoint. The outlook from the quarry site rewards the climb with sweeping views over the forest canopy toward the lake and urban area.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers describe the track as a pleasant and rewarding moderate hike that offers a good mix of forest scenery and elevated views without being overly demanding. Many appreciate the quiet sections away from the main redwood grove and note the helpful signage and well-maintained surfaces.
Reviewers frequently mention the free access, convenient parking and nearby cafe facilities at the visitor centre. Some note that the lookout can be slightly overgrown yet still provides satisfying glimpses of the lake, and that the climb includes roots and uneven ground best suited to proper walking shoes.
Where to Learn More
The Redwoods – Long Walks: Official details and maps for the Quarry Lookout Track and other Whakarewarewa Forest walking routes.
Rotorua NZ – Whakarewarewa Forest Walking Trails: Visitor information on distances, grades and connections to other tracks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Quarry Lookout Track?
4.8 kilometres, taking approximately 1–1.5 hours at a steady pace.
Is it a loop or out-and-back?
There are two return options: retrace the climb back to the Visitor Centre, or take the Quarry Road alternative return, which varies the route and avoids repeating the steeper sections.
What shoes should I wear?
Sturdy walking shoes or boots are recommended. The track includes an uphill climb on uneven forest surface — road shoes or sandals are not ideal.
What are the views from the lookout?
Across the top of the redwood canopy and out to Lake Rotorua and the city. The old rhyolite quarry is also visible below.
Is the Quarry Lookout Track suitable for children?
Older children with a reasonable level of fitness will enjoy it. It is more demanding than the Memorial Grove Track or Waitawa Walk, so it is not the best first choice for very young children or those who struggle with sustained uphill sections.
Does the Quarry Lookout Track connect to other trails?
Yes — it branches off the Waitawa Walk and connects back to it on the return. The longer Tokorangi Pa Track (11.5 km, purple markers) also uses part of the same route before diverging further into the forest.
Is the track open year-round?
The track is generally open year-round, though sections may close temporarily for forestry operations or maintenance. Check current conditions at the Redwoods Visitor Centre before starting.
Are dogs allowed on the Quarry Lookout Track?
Dogs are not permitted on walking tracks in Whakarewarewa Forest. They must remain on forestry roads only.
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