There are few better ways to enjoy Taupō’s epic natural landscapes than from the saddle of a bike. From the epic Great Lake Trail to family-friendly Craters Mountain Bike Park, Taupō offers some of the best mountain-biking in New Zealand on a network of internationally recognised, purpose-built trails to suit every kind of rider.
And thanks to the pumice-rich, free-draining soils of the region, every day is a great day for a ride, even in winter.
Taupō’s riding experiences range from grade 1-2 family and e-bike tracks to epic overnight adventures, grade 5 downhills, mountain bike and BMX jump parks. There are a wide variety of long scenic trails, and both the Great Lake Trail and the Timber Trail are part of Nga Haerenga - The New Zealand Cycle Trail network.
Set off from Taupō, Turangi, Kinloch or one of the smaller villages, or catch a water taxi or bike shuttle to the start of trails further afield. You can explore by yourself, hire a guide or book a multi-day package. Our local bike shop staff can give you the inside word on the best experience and gear for you.
Southern Lake Taupo has some of the best mountain bike country in New Zealand. We know trails that ride through stunning scenery, immersing you in native forest and along side magnificent rivers full of trout and can be relaxing or challenging.
$55 - $170The Tree Trunk Gorge trail will take you on a picturesque journey through the Kaimanawa Forest Park. It passes through classic central North Island beech forest, across streams and rivers and over two impressive gorges as it tracks along the upper section of the Tongariro River.
Enjoy the Beautiful Scenery of the famous Waikato River Trail as you Bike or walk in an ever-changing, Breathtaking landscape, for just a few hours, or travel more of the trail over 2 to 5 days. Shuttle, Bike Hire and accommodation available.
$20 - $60On the shores of Lake Taupō lies an epic mountain biking adventure. What began as a pipe dream for a crew of local trail builders has evolved into the stunning Great Lake Trail, a 71km mountain biking and walking journey that will take you deep into the native bush surrounding the beautiful Lake Taupō.
The W2K section of the Great Lake Trail provides great views across Lake Taupō and back down towards Kinloch, one of the most beautiful lakeside villages in the country. The native bush creates a feeling of being far from civilisation, despite the fact that this is the most accessible section of the Great Lake Trail.
2 nights BnB accommodation and all transport to mountain bike the Great lake trail over 2 days including the boat transfer for Waihaha on day 1 and the K2K and W2K sections on day 2.
$399 - $499A series of trails connecting Taupō town with Huka Falls, Aratiatia Dam, Wairakei Tourist Park and Craters Mountain Bike Park.
This is Taupo’s take on Surf-and-turf. Ride the 50+ Grade 3 Rapids of the mighty Tongariro River with Rafting New Zealand.
$149Flowing downhill, stunning wetlands, secluded beaches perfect for a mid-way swim and sweeping views of Lake Taupō are just some of the highlights of the Kawakawa section of the Great Lake Trail.
The 85km long Timber Trail is a unique mountain bike ride across ancestral Māori lands, taking you deep into the ancient Pureora Forest Park in New Zealand's central North Island.
Relax and sightsee, or for the more adventurous: ride, hike or climb around the Great Lake Trail with easy access to all tracks with Bay2Bay Water Taxi.
$40 - $100Kayaking with Taupo Kayak Adventures is not the only way to enjoy the stunning scenery the Great Lake Taupo region has to offer. Grab a bike and explore the region on 2 wheels or if you prefer a slower pace, join us on one of our many walking tours.
$90 - $400Mountain bikers can explore a series of trails along New Zealand's longest river - the mighty Waikato River. The trails cover about 100 kilometres of previously inaccessible Southern Waikato land from Lake Karapiro to the Atiamuri Dam.
The Tongariro River Trail is a scenic looped ride along both sides of the Tongariro River in Turangi.
Towering volcanic rock cliffs, spectacular views and a waterfall hidden deep in the Waihaha Valley are highlights of the Waihaha section. The trail has been built with flowing corners and fun downhills, and some short switchback climbs to keep you honest!
Taupo Kayaking Adventures (TKA) specialises in guided scenic tours and trips on Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest fresh water lake, rivers, streams, walking and mountain biking tracks and trails in the Great Lake Taupo Region.
$90 - $400Two way trail along the beautiful Waikato river between Control Gates Bridge and Spa Park.
Great lake trail, Timber trail, 42nd traverse, Tongariro crossing, Bridge to nowhere and charter options available for hikers and mountain bikers.
$30 - $500The Waihaha Hut Track is set in native forest within the Pureora Forest Park on the western side of Lake Taupo. The bike track follows the beautiful Waihaha River up to the Waihaha Hut which is set in a clearing overlooking the river.
Known as the greatest mountain bike ride in the North Island, the 42 Traverse follows an old logging road through some of the most remote and rugged land in New Zealand.
