Mount Hobson and Mount Saint John Loop

The Mount Hobson and Mount Saint John Loop is a short and moderately challenging hike in Auckland. This hike explores two of Auckland’s dormant volcanoes. This lollipop loop is 2.3 miles long and gains 527 feet of elevation.

The Mount Hobson and Mount Saint John Loop starts at the corner of Dilworth Ave and MacMurray Rd. There is some street parking available. From here, begin hiking southeast into Mount Hobson Domain. The start of the trail is a very steep uphill. You will gain over 175 feet of elevation over the first 0.25 miles. This will bring you to the top of Mount Hobson which has a small crater. From the top of Mount Hobson, you can see Auckland CBD, Hobson Bay, and Rangitoto Island to the north. Mount Eden and Mount Saint John are visible to the west. Mount Saint John is your next destination.

Continue downhill on the trail towards Mount Hobson Ln. You will then encounter Mount Hobson Rd and be 0.5 miles into the hike. Turn left here. 0.1 miles later, turn right onto Market Rd. You will now be traveling in a commercial area. After 0.4 miles on Market Rd, you will turn right to enter Mount Saint John Domain. Hike uphill for 0.1 miles before turning right. You will now be walking around the crater of Mount Saint John. 0.2 miles later, turn right and pass through a gate. Shortly after, you will reach Mount Saint John Ave and turn right. After 0.3 miles, you will come to Market Rd. Turn left and retrace your steps from earlier to return to the trailhead.

The Mount Hobson and Mount Saint John Loop is open year-round. There are no fees associated with this hike. Dogs are allowed in on this hike, but they must be on a leash at all times. The Mount Hobson and Mount Saint John Loop is a terrific hike for exploring two Auckland monuments.