Wairakei Thermal Loop

An eighteen-kilometer loop joins together some of the favorite bike trails near the Wairakei Tourist Park, from Huka Falls to Aratiatia Dam as well as the Wairakei Resort Track. Ride through a geothermal wonderland in the Taupo region.

Cafe Track (The Hub) to Huka Falls

This trail links Kefi at Hub and FourB - Bike Tours, Shuttles & Hire to the Huka Falls carpark. The trail zig-zags down through native bush. At the bottom of the switchbacks, you will find a stunning view of Huka Falls. Follow the trail to the Huka Falls bridge where you can watch over 220,000 liters of water rush out of the falls. 

1.1km | Grade 2/3 (be careful on the switchbacks!)

Huka Falls to Aratiatia Dam

From Huka Falls there is a steady climb at first but eases into trails right along the Waikato River. As you make your way to the Aratiatia Dam, there are viewpoints along the trail that overlook the Waikato River and Huka Prawn Park

6.7km | Grade 2/3

Aratiatia Dam to Wairakei Resort

In the summer months (October to March) the flood gates on the Aratiatia Dam open every two hours between 10am and 4pm for around 15 minutes creating a spectacular flow of water through a narrow gorge. It is an impressive sight so time your ride appropriately, approximately one hour from the start of the trail to reach Aratiatia Dam. From the dam, ride past the Aratiatia dam and cross the Waikato River. Take in the views of a geothermal power station and some easy flat terrain. Head back into the forest and enter the Wairakei Resort Track to ride along an incredible geothermal stream. 

4.9km | Grade 2/3

Wairakei Resort back to The Hub

Ride along the Wairakei Resort Track onto the Wairakei Tourist Track off Karetoto Road to end up back at the Hub. Once you are done riding the loop, replenish and relax with some delicious food and coffee at The Hub.

4.9km | Grade 2/3

Distance ~17km
Time 2hr (e-bike)
Physical rating Easy/Intermediate
Direction Loop track
Transport & guides Yes - Rent a bike at FourB
Dog access Yes, dogs allowed 

Hire a bike or book a guided tour

  • Airport shuttles

    FourB - Great Lake Trails Shuttles

    Shuttle transfers for all sections of the Great Lake Trails in Taupo including booking the water taxi transfer from the Waihaha section in the Western Bays of Lake Taupo.

    $45 - $150
  • Cycling & Mountain Biking

    Huka River Trail Guided Geothermal E-bike Tour

    Enjoy a scenic e-bike tour and learn about our breathtaking Huka Falls, the mighty crystal clear Waikato River, Aratiatia Dam & Rapids. Finish with a ride past an incredible geothermal stream in Wairakei. (previous MTB experience is good).

    $299 - $399
  • Cycle Hire

    FourB - Taupo Bike Hire

    Hire a bike. Hard tail, full suspension and electric mountain bikes. We also hire road bikes.

    $39 - $149
  • Mountain biking

    FourB - Taupo Midweek E-Bike and B&B Package

    Escape to Taupo for a midweek 2-night e bike experience for two including shuttles and accommodation to enjoy self guided Huka River Trails 35km loop starting at finishing at our BnB. Some previous trail riding experience is important.

    $200
Physical address:
Huka Falls Road
Wairakei
Taupō town