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Cycling & mountain biking in Taupo
There are few better ways to enjoy Taupo’s epic natural landscapes than from the saddle of a bike. From the epic Great Lake Trail to family-friendly Craters Mountain Bike Park, Taupo 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.
Taupo’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 the Great Lake Trails, Timber Trail and Waikato River Trails are all part of Nga Haerenga - The New Zealand Cycle Trail network.
With over 220km of singletrack riding, you will find an epic ride around every corner.
Internationally recognised
The Taupo region was accredited by the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) as a silver level ride centre, which means that it is home to large-scale mountain biking facilities that offer something for all riders.
Taupo cycling and mountain bike trails
Bike trails, parks, tours & shuttles
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Cycling & Mountain Biking
Overnight e-Bike Adventures
Join us for the ultimate private mountain e-biking adventure in the Central North Island and stay in a luxurious remote lodge for the night. You will experience a truly private, wilderness adventure, with your very own on-site accommodation and host.
$499 Book now -
Motels
Pa Harakeke
Pa Harakeke Pureora is the "Gateway to The Timber Trail" and offers everything you need to experience this fantastic ride which winds its way through beautiful native forest steeped in history, culture and adventure.
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Cycling & mountain biking
W2K section of the Great Lake Trails
The W2K section of the Great Lake Trails provides great views across Lake Taupo and back down towards Kinloch, one of the most beautiful lakeside villages in the country.
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Cycling & mountain biking
Great Lake Pathway (Lion's Walk)
Voted New Zealand's Favourite Urban Ride in 2017, the Great Lake Pathway (Lion's Walk) is perfectly suited for families and offers spectacular views across Lake Taupo to the snow-capped peaks of Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Ruapehu.
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Mountain biking
Mountain Bike Skills Taupo Ltd
We are a coaching and guiding service located at Craters MTB Park - Taupo. Let us help you refine your mountain biking skills, gain confidence and have a blast on the trails, or simply enjoy a guided ride of the best trails the Park has to offer.
$60 - $1,350 -
Cycling & mountain biking
Huka Falls to Aratiatia Dam Trail
This 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.
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Cycling & mountain biking
Timber Trail
The 85km long Timber Trail is a unique mountain bike ride across ancestral Maori lands, taking you deep into the ancient Pureora Forest Park in New Zealand's central North Island.
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Mountain biking
42 Traverse Guided E-Bike Ride
Known as one of the best adventure mountain bike ride in New Zealand. A 46km Grade 3 guided mountain e-bike tour through the Tongariro Forest. The 42 Traverse takes you into sub-alpine New Zealand with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
$170 Book now -
Cycling & mountain biking
Huka Trails
Ride a network of trails that wind along the Waikato River, connecting Taupo town with Huka Falls, Aratiatia Dam, Wairakei Tourist Park and Craters Mountain Bike Park.
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Fishing – Fresh Water
Tongariro River Rafting
Welcome to Tongariro River Rafting: we’re a fun, friendly, family-owned company offering guided Tongariro River experiences from our awesome home base in Turangi. For down-to-earth Kiwi backcountry fun, we can’t be beat!
$99 - $700 Book now
Further afield - Central North Island mountain bike trails
Taupo is the perfect place to base yourself to explore North Island trails and parks. Just one-hour north you’ll discover the world-renowned Redwoods (Whakarewarewa Forest) Mountain Bike Park and Skyline Gravity Park in Rotorua, and just a short day trip south you’ll find the 42 Traverse, Fishers Track, Ohakune Old Coach Road and Bridge to Nowhere. Many of Taupo's local bike shuttle operators and guides offer day trips to all of these trails.
Plan your trip
Set off from Taupo town, 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.
Après-bike
It’s not only the world-class riding on offer, but also the après-bike experience that makes Taupo such a special cycling destination. Add some action adventure like sailing, jetboating, rafting and bungy jumping to your cycling holiday, or top off the day with a local craft beer, wine and cuisine, and a soak in natural geothermal hot pools as the sun goes down.
Biking events
From family friendly fun to mountain biking adventures and epic road cycling, there's a biking event to suit every rider in Taupo.