Waihaha Hut Track

The Waihaha Hut Track follows the Waihaha River and offers an adventurous ride with moderate climbs, some challenging sections, and lush forest. You'll journey through shrubland and dense podocarp forest, ending at a scenic clearing with a cozy 10-bunk hut. Enjoy the beauty of the Pureora ranges!

Elevation

The Waihaha Hut Track offers mountain bikers a fun mix of moderate climbs, gentle descents, and flat sections. Navigate technical turns as you wind through beautiful forest landscapes, making it an adventurous ride with just the right amount of elevation changes.

Riding the Waihaha Hut Track

The track follows the beautiful Waihaha River up to the Waihaha Hut which is set in a clearing overlooking the river. It can be biked or walked to the hut.

This trail is grade 4 and is 9km one way into the hut. Riders return the same way, making it an 18km return journey. The trail has been upgraded to make it more rideable but there are still some difficult sections where bikes will need to be carried. The trail is suitable for riders of moderate skill levels and fitness and you can expect to complete the return journey in approximately 3 hours.

The first part of the trail meanders along the Waihaha River bank and follows upstream through shrubland before entering dense podocarp forest. After 9km of riding you will reach a picturesque clearing where you’ll find the 10 bunk Waihaha Hut, a popular overnight location for hunters and trampers. The hut overlooks the Waihaha River where there is a good spot for a quick swim in summer. Have lunch at the hut (pack your own) or a drink stop before heading back out of the forest the way you came in.

This ride is considered one of the most accessible and achievable adventure rides in the Taupō region. The shorter distance makes it achievable for those with moderate fitness while still experiencing the remoteness of the forest in the Pureora ranges.

Supervolcanic trail details

Plan your ride

Make sure you carry enough food, water and warm clothes as the weather can change quickly in the backcountry, and always let someone know where you are going and what time you expect to return.

Find out everything you need to plan for this track on Plan My Walk

Distance	18km
Grade	4
Time required	3hrs
Phone coverage	Intermittant
Toilets	At start/finish of the trail and at Waihaha Hut
Shuttle	Yes, shuttles are available from Taupō. Book shuttle services prior to departure.

Getting here

To get to the Waihaha Hut Track from Taupo, drive south on State Highway 1 towards Turangi, turn right onto State Highway 32 (Western Bay Road) after about 30 kilometers, then turn right onto Waihaha Road after approximately 25 kilometers and follow it to the trailhead. The drive takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.

Bike hire, Transport & Tours

Bike hire, shuttles and the water taxi are run almost entirely from Taupō. Fluctuating seasonal demand and the remoteless of pick-up/drop-off points makes it essential to book these services well in advance.

Find bike hire

Find transport & tours

Accommodation

Taupō has a wide range of accommodation both in town and around, all close to cafes, a supermarket and other visitor services.

Find accommodation

Safety Guidelines

Ride Within Your Abilities

Mountain biking involves various challenges and risks, including but not limited to steep descents, uneven terrain, and natural obstacles. It is vital that you ride within the limits of your capabilities and the trail ratings appropriate to your level of experience and skill. Do not attempt trails or maneuvers that are beyond your current skill level.

Below is a guide to trail grades, ability and the what the standard is:

Grade Rating	Technical Ability	What to expect
Grade 1	Easiest	Fairly flat, wide, smooth track or gravel road.
Grade 2	Easy	Mostly flat with some gentle climbs on smooth track with easily avoidable obstacles such as rocks and potholes.
Grade 3	Intermediate	Steep slopes and/or avoidable obstacles possibly on narrow track and/or with poor traction. There may be exposure at the track’s outside edge.
Grade 4	Advanced	A mixture of long, steep climbs, narrow track, poor traction and obstacles that are difficult to avoid or jump over. Generally exposed at the track’s outside edge. Most riders will find some sections easier to walk.
Grade 5	Expert	Technically challenging. Giant climbs, narrow track and numerous hazards including dangerous drop-offs, sharp corners and difficult obstacles. Expect walking and possibly bike carrying.
Grade 6	Extreme	Downhill/free ride specific tracks. Extremely steep sections with large drop-offs and other unavoidable obstacles. May include man made structures and jumps.

Preparation and Safety Gear

Proper preparation and safety gear are crucial for a safe mountain biking experience. Always wear a helmet and other recommended protective gear such as gloves, knee pads, and elbow pads. Ensure your mountain bike is in good working condition and appropriate for the trail types. Bring adequate hydration and snacks, especially for longer rides.

Trail Etiquette and Environmental Respect

Respect trail signage and keep to marked paths. Be courteous to other trail users and yield the right of way where appropriate. Do not leave any litter behind and avoid actions that could damage the natural environment or disturb wildlife.

Emergency Procedures

Before hitting the trails, ensure you are prepared for unexpected situations. Carry a basic first aid kit, a multi-tool for bike repairs, and a means of communication, such as a fully charged mobile phone or a two-way radio where service is limited. Consider the weather conditions and bring appropriate clothing and protective gear. Always inform a guide or fellow rider of your intended route and expected return time. Knowing basic first aid and bike repair techniques can be invaluable in case of minor accidents or mechanical issues.

Insurance

We recommend that all participants have personal insurance that covers mountain biking activities.

Physical address: