The Taupō 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.
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.
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.
A series of trails connecting Taupō town with Huka Falls, Aratiatia Dam, Wairakei Tourist Park and Craters Mountain Bike Park.
Craters 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.
The 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.
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.
The Tongariro River Trail is a scenic looped ride along both sides of the Tongariro River in Turangi.
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 Trails.
This 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.
Voted New Zealand's Favourite Urban Ride in 2017, the Great Lake Walkway or Lion's Walk is perfectly suited for families and offers spectacular views across the lake to the snow-capped peaks of Mt Tongariro, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Ruapehu.
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!
Two way trail along the beautiful Waikato river between Control Gates Bridge and Spa Park.
The Headland Loop starts and finishes on the W2K trail at the top of the headland between Kinloch and Whakaipo Bay. This extension of the W2K is a must do if you love flowing singletrack.
The W2K section of the Great Lake Trails 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 Trails.
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.
Te 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.
A new section of the Great Lake Trails, the Otaketake Loop, is currently being built and is due for completion in December 2019.