Hiking
Marokopa Falls: a short forest walk near Waitomo
Plan the short Marokopa Falls walk: 600–700 m return, stairs and muddy patches, Te Anga Road parking, waterfall views and aerial route maps.
Marokopa Falls is a good choice when you want a short bush walk with a big waterfall at the end. The 35-metre cascade drops across a broad rock face, framed by native forest.
Quick facts
- About 600–700 m return on the same track.
- Allow around 20 minutes walking, plus time at the viewpoint.
- Easy short walk with some stairs and possible mud.
- Small car park on Te Anga Road; no dogs.
Getting to the start
The entrance is on Te Anga Road, about 31 km west of Waitomo and 15 km east of Marokopa. Use the small signed car park and keep the road clear. Arrange your own transport back to the same start.
Location and route maps
Open DOC’s track page and interactive map.
The walk, step by step
- Follow the formed forest track from the car park.
- Take the stairs carefully, especially after rain.
- Enjoy the falls from the designated viewing area.
- Return by the same path. Stay behind barriers.
Effort and conditions
This is a short outing rather than a long hike, but wet steps and mud need more care than a paved park path. Keep children close near the waterfall.
What I would bring
I would wear shoes with a grippy sole and take a rain layer, water and a small snack. A compact pack leaves your hands free on the steps.
Planning your return
Leave time for the drive as well as the walk. Sort out drinking water and a toilet stop before heading along Te Anga Road. Check the current DOC notice before leaving; use the signed viewing area even if older photographs show people closer to the water.
Sources and photo credits
Sources checked 3 October 2026.
Maps: LINZ Basemaps and imagery contributors, CC BY 4.0. Track geometry: Crown copyright, Department of Conservation, DOC Tracks dataset, CC BY 4.0. Location labels and route highlights added.
Photo: Marokopa falls 2026-05-12 01.jpg — Tom Ackroyd. CC BY 4.0. Resized for display.
