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 - $170On 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.
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 Tongariro River Trail is a scenic looped ride along both sides of the Tongariro River in Turangi.
Whether you want to hike it, bike it, taste it or just go see it Adventure Shuttles helps you get the buzz in the beautiful Central North Island.
$30 - $1,000Take a tour of the Biking Capital of New Zealand with Chris Jolly Outdoors. Lake Taupo offers some of the most stunning scenic bike trails, and a guided bike tour is the perfect way to enjoy the experience..
$300 - $500Voted 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.
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.
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 - $400This grade 2-3 loop trail is perfect for the whole family. Highlights include river views, the impressive Aratiatia Dam release, stunning native bush and a hidden geothermal stream.
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 - $400Towering 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!
From Taupō town you can ride all the way to Huka Falls (and on to Aratiatia Dam), following the course of the Waikato River along the Huka Falls Rotary Ride.
Great lake trail, Timber trail, 42nd traverse, Tongariro crossing, Bridge to nowhere and charter options available for hikers and mountain bikers.
$30 - $500This short loop track is a great way for walkers and mountain bikers to experience the variety of nature in the Kaimanawa Forest Park. Highlights include stunning podocarp forest and impressive views of Lake Taupō.
Flowing 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.
This is Taupo’s take on Surf-and-turf. Ride the 50+ Grade 3 Rapids of the mighty Tongariro River with Rafting New Zealand.
$149The great lake trail 2 day package includes, accommodation, food, Guide and all return shuttle transfers including the Boat transfer return from your accommodation.
$699 - $1,100The 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.
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.
