Big King Loop

Big King Path is a short and easy hike near Auckland City. It is located within Te Tatua-a-Riukiuta / Big King Reserve. This lollipop loop travels up and around one of Auckland's dormant volcanoes. The trail is mostly paved, but it does have a few dirt and gravel sections.This hike is 1 mile long and gains 157 feet of elevation.This hike starts from the Te Tatua-a-Riukiuta / Big King Reserve parking lot off of Duke St. Begin hiking south on a paved path. After 0.1 miles, you will reach a junction and go left to take the loop clockwise. There are many benches alongside the trail. After another 0.2 miles of uphill trekking, you will come to a junction and go right. The trail begins to wrap around Big King. A few hundred yards down the trail, you will head right at a junction. This is a spur trail that will take you to the top of Big King.From the top, you will have a spectacular view of Mount Eden, One Tree Hill, and Sky Tower in Auckland CBD. There is also a water tower at the top. From here, turn around and retrace your steps to return to the last junction. Take a right at this junction. Continue 0.1 miles before taking another right. Stay on this trail for 0.2 miles before taking a left onto a dirt path. This will connect with the initial paved path and lead you back to the parking lot.Te Tatua-a-Riukiuta / Big King Reserve is open for hiking year-round. There are no associated fees to hike here. Dogs are allowed on this trail as long as they are on a leash. The Big King Path is an easy way to get a great vantage point of Auckland City.