Taupo’s Best Mountain Bike Trails

May 11, 2022

Taupo might be visited with the idea of watersports in mind, but it’s also a cycling paradise with the region offering some of the best mountain bike (MTB) trails in the North Island. We’ve picked 5 of the best for you to hit in all seasons. Pack up your stuff and head to Taupo for the most fun you can have on two wheels.

Timber Trail

Coming in hot at number one is the famous Timber Trail. With 80 undulating kilometeres of gravel, mud and the most wicked views you’ll see on a bike, the historic path threads through native bush and up over a 140m suspension bridge which will blow your mind. With plenty of climbing this overnight night can be completed in two days for a thrilling weekend you will never forget.

Waikato River Trail

At number two, the Waikato River Trail extends to hit the 100km mark for 3 days of riding across grade 1 to 3 trails. There are easy sections for gravel bikes but for optimal fun you’ll want at least a hardtail for the tougher sections - I found out the hard way. You’ll enjoy bush, riverside views and plenty of places to stop on this epic journey.

Great Lake Trail

Number three dishes up an invigorating mix of inland forest and shoreline track. A great ride no matter what time of year, this all-seasons trail features some of the slickest views across to the Tongariro National Park. That should tell you it’s hilly! This 71km ride takes you along the western shore of Lake Taupo and over to the National Park. A great location for all things outdoors.

Craters of the Moon Bike Park

This purpose built MTB park is located in the stunning Wairakei Forest. With 50km of crafted trails for riders who are beginners through to experts, this park offers an experience that is hard to match with volcanic pumice soil perfect for riding in the wet and the dry.

42 Traverse

Finally, we have 42 Traverse, a rugged grade three 4WD track which is hugely popular in the North Island. These 50km of unmaintained trails is best on dry days and can get quite sticky with rain fall turning it into an absolute mudfest!

Get all your MTB equipment and bikes from Pushbikes and have a whale of a time out on the trails.