W2K Trail -Great Lake Trails

Overview

The W2K Trail of the Great Lake Trails starts from Kinloch and loops over the eastern peninsula of Whangamata Bay and into Whakaipo Bay. This section has two distance options. The loop is a grade 3 intermediate trail, 13km in length, with a few scenic stops along the route. The Headland Loop Trail adds on an additional 9.5km and is a little more physical than the main route. The ducking and diving through the trees as the trail twists lengthens the route, but you will find yourself out on the edge of the peninsula with stunning vistas over Lake Taupo.

Before setting out be sure to organise your transport back to Kinloch from Whakaipo Bay. There is road access into the bay, so dropping a vehicle there is an option or book a shuttle to pick you up. The other option is booking a water taxi to collect you off the shores of the bay and jet you back around to Kinloch. Alternatively you can ride this section from Whakaipo Bay to Kinloch.

Riding the W2K Trail

At the Kinloch Domain you will find a shelter with a map and bike washdown area. Start riding the W2K trail from here. Follow the markers around the marina, along the lakefront and then up a gully to Boojum Dell.

The W2K Trail heads up the hill from here, climbing steadily up through native bush and onto the headland, providing spectacular views across Lake Taupo to the mountains of Tongariro National Park as well as back down to Kinloch. Once on top of the headland the trail starts a long, flowing descent down to Whakaipo Bay.

Headland Loop Trail (optional)

From this point at the top of the headland, there is the optional Headland Loop Trail, a 9.5 km trail that follows the top of the Whangamata Bluffs out to the end of the headland then back around the other side to the point at which you started. There are more stunning views to be had from this trail out towards the Kaimanawa Ranges, the Karangahape Cliffs and Tongariro National Park to the south. There is also a short lookout trail off this loop that offers views of Kinloch and Whangamata Bay.

From the Headland Loop junction, head on down the long, flowing descent through the bush to Whakaipo Bay. This beautiful bay is a very popular swimming and picnic spot with its crystal clear water and wide open spaces.

If you are travelling in a self contained vehicle, overnight stays are allowed at the Whakaipo Bay Recreation Reserve. There is a maximum stay of 4 nights in any single calendar month. Toilets are available at the reserve and a fire ban is in place all year round.

Car parking is available at both ends of the trail, or you can arrange for a shuttle to pick you up if you don’t want to ride the return trip.

Getting there

From Taupo town, drive 21 km to the Kinloch Domain in Kinloch (next to Kinloch Store). You can leave your car here. The trail starts at the eastern end of the village and is a short ride from the carpark. Make sure you arrange for your shuttle pick up at the other side of the trail to return you to Kinloch.

If you are riding the trail from west to east, you can leave your car at Whakaipo Bay and arrange for a shuttle from Kinloch to return you to your vehicle.