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 - $170Great lake trail, Timber trail, 42nd traverse, Tongariro crossing, Bridge to nowhere and charter options available for hikers and mountain bikers.
$30 - $500Towering 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!
Mountain 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 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.
Kayaking 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 - $400Relax 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 - $100Te Iringa is a 38km long return mountain bike ride and one of the most technical grade 5 trails in New Zealand. For avid mountain bikers this is trail you must tick off your bucket list.
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.
On 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.
The great lake trail 2 day package includes, accommodation, food, Guide and all return shuttle transfers including the Boat transfer return from your accommodation.
$699 - $1,1002 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 - $499Explore the New Zealand Cycle Trails with Tread Routes. We provide shuttles, guiding, bike hire and package trips on a wide range of trails. We have expert trail knowledge and all the gear to make logistics easy.
$20 - $2,000Taupo 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 - $400Voted New Zealand's Favourite Urban Ride in 2017, the Great Lake Walkway is bike riding at its most basic level — even tots with training wheels will love this ride.
Two way trail along the beautiful Waikato river between Control Gates Bridge and Spa Park.
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 - $60This is Taupo’s take on Surf-and-turf. Ride the 50+ Grade 3 Rapids of the mighty Tongariro River with Rafting New Zealand.
$149Craters Mountain Bike Park is a purpose-built mountain bike park located only a short distance from the Taupō town, with trails ranging from children’s entry level to technical cross country.
