Top Bikes & Walks to Try this Spring
Spring in Taupō isn’t quite complete without exploring the many biking and walking trails we have.
We live amongst some of the best trails in New Zealand – and they’re great year round because of our draining pumice soils, that means no muddy trails!
Whether it’s your daily walk or bike, you want to try something different, or even challenge yourself, we’re lucky we live here.
Great Lake Trail
Waihaha (30km), Kawakawa (19km) and W2K (21km),
Bike or walk
An epic mountain biking adventure, or short walk – you choose. The Great Lake Trail combines three sections that take you on a journey through native bush and along the shores of the lake. You can walk or bike any or all of the sections, depending on your level of comfort. Kawakawa and W2K are great short walks if you return the same way, starting and ending in Kinloch.
The Great Lake Walkway
Total 10km
Bike or walk
Our favourite lakeside walk or bike, this starts at the Taupo Yacht Club and winds along the lake to Five Mile Bay. Great for beginners and families. With the scenic lakefront, mountain views, many tiny beaches and bays, children’s playgrounds and barbeque facilities, there’s so much to enjoy.
Lake Rotopounamu
2 hours, 5km loop track
Walk
A favourite with nature lovers, this picturesque lake is part of the Tongariro National Park. The track circles the lake and features several resting, picnic and swimming spots.
Waikato River Trails
12km-100km
Bike
Ideal for nature lovers and intermediate riders, this series of trails are a step up and take you through stunning scenery and bridge trails with a rural feel. Divided into five sections – Karapiro, Arapuni, Waipapa, Maraetai and Whakamaru, you can ride them individually or all together over three or four days.
Mt Tauhara
2.5km, 2 hours
Walk
1088 metres above sea level, Mt Tauhara overlooks Lake Taupo and the central North Island. Walking uphill through native natural bush, it can be challenging but you’ll be rewarded with spectacular 360° views from the summit. Worth the effort.
Craters Mountain Bike Park
Up to 50km
Bike
Located 10 minutes north of Taupo in the Wairakei Forest, this one has up to 50km of trails to suit all abilities, from children’s levels to cross country. Ride in and out of exotic pine and eucalyptus plantations, with some stunning views of Lake Taupo and the Waikato River.
Waihora Lagoon
20 minutes, 730 metres
Walk
Waihora Lagoon is a small rain-fed in Pureora Forest, surrounded by tall rimu and kahikatea trees. This easy walk snakes through the bush to a viewing platform where you can enjoy the tranquility, nature and birdlife.
Rotary Ride – Aratiatia Dam (Spa Park to Huka Falls)
30km Return
Bike or walk
Starting at Spa Park, ride or walk alongside the Waikato River and enjoy the views to Huka Falls or continue on to the Aratiatia Dam for the extra challenge. The walk is great for the whole family (dogs too!)
For more information about the gradings and all the details about the biking and walking trails around Taupō, visit www.GreatLakeTaupo.com.