The Taupo region has some of the best mountain biking in New Zealand, with internationally recognised, purpose-built trails to suit every type of bike rider.
From grade 1-2 family and e-bike tracks, to cross-country trails, mountain bike parks and BMX jump parks to epic overnight adventures and grade 5 downhill, there’s something for everyone in this region.
Explore the trails on your own, hire a bike, take a guided trip or book a multi-day package – you’ll uncover experiences and scenery that will take your breath away.
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.
Embark on the Kaimanawa Descent, a downhill trail that offers a thrilling ride through New Zealand's volcanic landscape. Accessible only by helicopter, this path designed for intermediate to advanced riders, winds through dense alpine forests with spectacular views of Tongariro National Park’s majestic peaks. An adrenaline-packed adventure awaits.
From Taupo 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.
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.
Ride amongst vast stands of Kamahi, through volcanic rock formations and past the intriguing Echo Rock before you start to descend down the Kotukutuku Stream.
<script src="https://kit.fontawesome.com/5ffaf9efe5.js" crossorigin="anonymous"></script> <style> .o-grid--tight .u-1\/4-l { margin: 10px 0 0 0; } .o-tile { border-radius: 10px; box-shadow: 0 0 0 1px #0000000f inset; background-color: #fff; } </style> <link rel="stylesheet" href="https://www.lovetaupo.com/media/0cblatzw/011025-lt-core-css-overrides-sv-minify.css"> <link rel="stylesheet" href="https://www.lovetaupo.com/media/afppdg1q/sv-override-css-sec-trail-v2.css">
There’s nothing technical on this loop, making it perfect for first-time trailblazers and families—an excellent introduction to Craters MTB Park. It winds through epic volcanic landscapes and under towering pines, with smooth berms and mellow climbs to keep everyone cruising happily along.
The Waikato River Trails are divided into five sections, each offering a unique adventure. You'll find everything from gently rolling paths to steeper, more rugged trails. The trails are graded from 3 (Intermediate) to 4 (Advanced). While most are wide and smooth, some, particularly in the Waipapa section, feature trickier single-tracks. A mountain bike is recommended for the best experience, ensuring you can handle the varied terrain and enjoy the scenic beauty to the fullest.in bikers and walkers can explore a series of cycle trails along New Zealand's longest river - the mighty Waikato River.
The Orakau Trail is a nice gradual downhill which takes you through stunning native wetlands before dropping you into the secluded Kawakawa Bay.
The newest section of the Great Lake Trails can be ridden by itself (12km) or part of a 36km loop that starts and finishes in Kinloch.
