The track follows the beautiful Waihaha River up to the Waihaha Hut which is set in a clearing overlooking the river. It can be biked or walked to the hut.
This trail is grade 4 and is 9km one way into the hut. Riders return the same way, making it an 18km return journey. The trail has been upgraded to make it more rideable but there are still some difficult sections where bikes will need to be carried. The trail is suitable for riders of moderate skill levels and fitness and you can expect to complete the return journey in approximately 3 hours.
The first part of the trail meanders along the Waihaha River bank and follows upstream through shrubland before entering dense podocarp forest. After 9km of riding you will reach a picturesque clearing where you’ll find the 10 bunk Waihaha Hut, a popular overnight location for hunters and trampers. The hut overlooks the Waihaha River where there is a good spot for a quick swim in summer. Have lunch at the hut (pack your own) or a drink stop before heading back out of the forest the way you came in.
This ride is considered one of the most accessible and achievable adventure rides in the Taupō region. The shorter distance makes it achievable for those with moderate fitness while still experiencing the remoteness of the forest in the Pureora ranges.
Make sure you carry enough food, water and warm clothes as the weather can change quickly in the backcountry, and always let someone know where you are going and what time you expect to return.
Find out everything you need to plan for this track on Plan My Walk
| Distance | 18km |
| Grade | 4 |
| Time required | 3hrs |
| Phone coverage | Intermittant |
| Toilets | At start/finish of the trail and at Waihaha Hut |
| Shuttle | Yes, shuttles are available from Taupō. Book shuttle services prior to departure. |