Defined by an ancient volcanic landscape with the largest freshwater lake in Australasia (plus more than 20 other lakes), thundering waterfalls, ancient native bush, the mighty Waikato River and Tongariro River and the volcanic mountains of the dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park, Taupo's spectacular natural features and scenic attractions can't be found anywhere else in the world.
The 42 Traverse takes you on an adventure through remote, rugged terrain, following an old logging road in former State Forest 42. Best enjoyed in summer, it features ruts, washouts, and river crossings. With a 520m descent, it's great for experienced and intermediate riders seeking a thrilling ride and breathtaking views.
This track is the shortest route to the top of Mount Pureora. On a clear day walkers are rewarded with views across Lake Taupō, the Mamaku Ranges, Mount Taranaki, and Mount Ruapehu.
<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">
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.
This easy walk in Pureora Forest Park takes you to a small rain-fed lagoon surrounded by tall kahikatea and rimu trees.
The Orakau Trail is a nice gradual downhill which takes you through stunning native wetlands before dropping you into the secluded Kawakawa Bay.
Right in the heart of town centre is Taupō's newest family destination! Walk through the gardens of the Tongariro Domain, grab takeaways from one of the many cafes off Tongariro Street, and picnic on Tongariro's Domain's lawn right next to the playground. Just a stone's throw away from Lake Taupō, enjoy an afternoon of pure fun.
Beyond Earth provides entertaining stargazing experiences either at our own venue, or your home or holiday accommodation.
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.
The Kawakawa Section of the Great Lake Trails is made up of the K2K Trail, Orakau Trail, and Otaketake Trail.
