The standard ascent route on Hauhungatahi is a tramp from the west side starting near Erua, following remnants of an old track in places, and bush-bashing through several overgrown and boggy areas to reach the bush line near on the summit plateau. Slightly easier travel continues eastward to the true summit, which provides panoramic views of neighboring peaks throughout the park including Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro.