The Supervolcanic Trail Network throws down some serious challenges with advanced and expert trails spread across the region, leaving even the most adrenaline-hungry rider grinning ear to ear. Ancient eruptions have shaped the central North Island into a massive volcanic playground for trail junkies, so whether you're up for wilderness rides deep within the Kaimanawa Forest Park or hitting locals' favourites at Craters MTB Park, there's no shortage of incredible terrain to conquer. Cloaked in volcanic pumice soils, this region promises year-round, free-draining biking action. Traverse heart-pounding technical routes hugging mountainsides or send it down exhilarating descents past ancient lava flows before arriving at the serene shores of a pristine caldera beside Tongariro National Park. Wrap up the day by indulging in wood-fired pizzas and savouring locally crafted beer while swapping tales and plotting fresh plans.
Te Iringa Trail
Brace yourself for a backcountry odyssey within the untamed expanse of Kaimanawa Forest Park. This remote journey isn’t for the faint of heart. The Te Iringa Trail unveils some of the nation's most technical grade 5 trails, weaving through dense beech forests and rugged terrain that'll test even the most seasoned riders. With relentless climbs, heart-stopping descents, and tight switchbacks, riders will be white-knuckling some truly challenging sections. But among the gnarly terrain, flowing descents connect abandoned campsites and serene streams for well-deserved breathers. For an epic one-day adventure, turn around after refuelling at Tiki Tiki Stream or push on to Oamaru Hut to spend the night immersed in pure wilderness. As dawn breaks, warm up the legs for the return journey, where you'll be rewarded with four kilometres of epic trail descending through an ancient forest to the car park - leaving riders itching to shred some more.
Need to know: Grade 5 (Expert). Allow 4 to 6 hours one way to Oamaru Hut (19 km one way) or about 4 hours one way to Tiki Tiki Stream. Te Iringa Car Park is about 4 km along Clements Mill Road. Hut tickets are required for Oamaru Hut.
Tree Trunk Gorge | State Highway 1 Tūrangi
Despite being at the lower end of the grit factor scale, trail warriors shouldn’t risk FOMO by skipping this tree-shrouded adventure that meanders through classic red beech forests near Tūrangi. It still packs a punch along its seven kilometres with stream crossings, technical descents, and a few heart-pumping climbs while following the upper reaches of the Tongariro River. Vistas of ancient, eroded lava flows, immense gorges and glimpses of Tongariro National Park tick off the scenery highlights, while the extra bonus of making this a 17-kilometre loop with an added challenging section boosts the appeal of this as a day trip. For an overnight wilderness experience, pitch a tent alongside the trail at Urchin Campsite for starry night marshmallow roasting.
Need to know: Grade 4 (Advanced). Allow 1 hour (7 km) one-way between The Tree Trunk Gorge and the Pillars of Hercules car parks. Allow 2 to 4 hours (17 km) to complete the loop. The Tree Trunk Gorge is 23 km south of Tūrangi. Car parking is available at both ends, including the Urchin Campsite, or shuttle services are available from Tūrangi and Taupō. Be prepared to get your feet wet while navigating stream crossings, which can become unrideable after heavy rain.
Craters MTB Park
Stay local and enjoy the benefits of exploring a region cloaked in free-draining pumice soils by tackling single-track goodness at Craters MTB Park. Just minutes from the caffeine-fuelling coffee shops of Taupō, dedicated locals have crafted a purpose-built MTB playground that delivers more than 50 kilometres of top-notch trails year-round. No muddy bogs to slow down your adventures. Grab a Bike Taupō visitor’s pass and disappear into Wairakei Forest with its mix of mature and new-growth plantation trees to reach sprawling technical cross-country territory, big jumps, and steep descents to keep the reflexes perky. Bring snacks to enjoy while soaking up panoramic views of the super volcanic plateau.
Great Lake Trails | Waihaha Section
The longest leg of the Great Lake Trails delivers seriously remote, volcanic vibes. This trail follows a deep gorge carved by the Waihaha River flowing towards Lake Taupō. Geological remnants from mammoth eruptions line the single-track trail; exposed outcrops jut from the landscape, offering viewpoints for wraparound views of lakes and vast bush-clad ranges, while Echo Rock emits eerie waterfall acoustics. This trail requires quick responses as flowing corners, sweeping descents, and short, sharp switchback climbs pepper the trail, which ends on the sparkly shoreline of Lake Taupō. Pre-arranged water taxis whisk riders to the sleepy bach-filled Kinloch township, where ice creams and fish and chips on the beach await. Or opt to be dropped at Kawakawa Bay to satisfy any remaining trail urges on the last half of the Kawakawa Section across a forested headland.
Need to know: Grade 3 (Intermediate). Allow 4 to 5 hours biking (30 km) one way plus a boat trip. Waihaha River car park off SH32. About a 50-minute drive from Taupō. Due to its remoteness, booking shuttles and water taxis makes life easier.
Safety Note:
Wilderness rides often have limited cell phone coverage, so it pays to carry a personal locator beacon because sometimes it’s just you and your bike conquering the great outdoors. For the latest trail updates or closures, check lovetaupo.com.
Explore more Supervolcanic Trail Network rides.