The Taupō region has some of the best walking and cycling trails in New Zealand, from family-friendly lakeside cruising to journeys deep into ancient native forests.
With over 220km of singletrack riding, you will find a trail for every age and ability, from grade 1-2 family and e-bike tracks to epic overnight adventures, grade 5 downhills, mountain bikes, BMX, and jump parks.
Our world-class hiking trails crisscross ancient forests and swamplands, geothermal wonderlands, and breathtaking volcanic and alpine terrain.
Climbing steadily through beech forest to the Urchin Trig at 1,391 metres. Enjoy views of Lake Taupo and the Tongariro National Park. Dog-friendly with a DOC permit. Carpark access is only for 4wd vehicles.
Journey through native bush, red beech forest, across streams and rivers, and over impressive gorges alongside the upper section of the Tongariro River. Dog-friendly with a DOC permit.
Whakapapa Nature Walk, Ridge Track, Mounds Walk, and Tawhai Falls are all short walks easily accessible from Whakapapa Village in Tongariro National Park.
Circumnavigate the emerald-coloured lake, which fills a crater nestled into the side of Mount Pihanga. Enjoy picnicking and swimming in the warmer months.
Starting in Tūrangi, this scenic looped trail follows the Tongariro River through rolling farmland and native bush with magnificent views and two swing bridges. Dog-friendly.
Wander through lush native bush along the edge of Lake Taupō. Catch glimpses of the lake and look out for bellbird and tui in the trees above. Dog-friendly.
A relaxing 7km return forest trail along a beautiful running stream. It is family-friendly, and you may even spot some trout! Dog-friendly.
Walk amongst majestic Rimu trees and birdsong. The track climbs to a viewpoint that looks out over the stunning Pureora Forest and Mount Pureora.
Towering volcanic rock cliffs, spectacular views, hidden waterfalls and transfer by water taxi are all highlights of this very scenic trail. Dog-friendly.
A favourite with locals. Journey through stunning native bush and enjoy great views across Lake Taupō and down towards Kinloch. Dog-friendly.
Flowing downhill, stunning wetlands, secluded beaches perfect for a mid-way swim and sweeping views of Lake Taupō are just some of the highlights.
Three sections are directly accessible from Kinloch, and a brilliant new addition – the Otaketake Trail – can be ridden as a return ride or combined with the Orakau Trail to form a 35km loop. Dog-friendly.
Stroll through native bush on this scenic lakeside trail to Whakamoenga Point, where you will find flat volcanic rocks perfect for picnicking and swimming. Dog friendly.
Wander off the main streets and explore Taupō town centre’s many hidden laneways. Discover a rich collection of vibrant, large-scale, new artworks added every Labour Day Weekend. Dog-friendly.
This scenic and accessible walkway is flat, with plenty of stop-off points for picnics, coffee and ice cream, swims and photo opportunities. Dog-friendly.
Climb to the summit at 1,088m and take in stunning panoramic views over Lake Taupō, towards the Tongariro National Park and across the central North Island.
Explore rare mature podocarp forests, and discover local Māori history and relics from the historic Opepe township. Dog-friendly.
Wander along the banks of the beautiful Waikato River from the geothermal Otumuheke Stream in Spa Thermal Park to the spectacular Huka Falls. Dog-friendly.
Ride (or walk) to Huka Falls (and on to Aratiatia Dam) from Taupō town, following the course of the Waikato River. Dog-friendly. Shared trail.
Ride from Huka Falls to Aratiatia Dam along the banks of the Waikato River. Return or loop back on the other side of the river. Dog-friendly.
A short, family-friendly walk. Witness the Aratiatia Dam floodgates open, creating a spectacular water flow through a narrow gorge. Dog-friendly.
Showcasing natural geothermal activity, this walk includes bubbling craters, steam vents and colourful soils. Wheelchair accessible.
Discover steaming hot mineral pools, spluttering mud pools, and trout in the stream on this family friendly short walk next to Tokaanu Thermal Pools.
Enjoy a boardwalk and trail that winds through a geothermal wonderland featuring gushing geysers, hot springs, bubbling mud and amazing silica terraces. Dog friendly.
Wind around the edge of Lake Whakamaru, across wetlands and boardwalks, and stand in awe of huge bluffs rising from the lake.
Explore ancestral Maori land deep in the ancient Pureora Forest Park. Ride a historic tramway and cross an epic 140m suspension bridge. Lodges available. Dog friendly with a DOC permit.
And a few extras:
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is rated as the best one-day hike in New Zealand. Trek across an ancient volcanic landscape of dramatic contrasts – steaming vents, glacial valleys, ancient lava flows, alpine vegetation and vivid crater lakes, all with stunning views across the central North Island.
The Tama Lakes track extends to the Taranaki Falls walking track, forming part of the larger Tongariro Northern Circuit Great Walk (43.1km loop). Highlights include beautiful waterfalls, tussock and alpine shrubs, beech forest, impressive crater lakes and fantastic views of Mt Ruapehu and Mt Ngauruhoe.
