The Waikato River Trails are divided into five sections, each offering a unique adventure. You'll find everything from gently rolling paths to steeper, more rugged trails. The trails are graded from 3 (Intermediate) to 4 (Advanced). While most are wide and smooth, some, particularly in the Waipapa section, feature trickier single-tracks. A mountain bike is recommended for the best experience, ensuring you can handle the varied terrain and enjoy the scenic beauty to the fullest.in bikers and walkers can explore a series of cycle trails along New Zealand's longest river - the mighty Waikato River.
The Waikato River Trails are divided into five sections, each offering a unique adventure. You'll find everything from gently rolling paths to steeper, more rugged trails. The trails are graded from 3 (Intermediate) to 4 (Advanced). While most are wide and smooth, some, particularly in the Waipapa section, feature trickier single-tracks. A mountain bike is recommended for the best experience, ensuring you can handle the varied terrain and enjoy the scenic beauty to the fullest.
Trail Stats and Map
Total Distance
104 Km
Time
1 hr to 4 days
Ability
Intermediate to advanced
Trail Type
River | Gravel | Dirt | Pathways
Click on the map to enlarge and magnify
Elevation
The Waikato River Trails offer diverse cycling experiences with rolling terrain, gentle climbs, tight turns, and stunning views. Ride through lush native bush, open farmlands, and lakeside paths. Each trail, suitable for all levels, promises a memorable adventure with beautiful scenery and varied challenges.
Elevation
Elevation | 518m
Climb | 26km
Descent | 34.6km
Flat | ~18.7km
SV HR Line
Riding Waikato River Trails
The trails cover about 100 kilometres of previously inaccessible Southern Waikato land from Atiamuri Village to Lake Karapiro.
Waikato River Trails welcome everyone to wind their way along a Trail that encompasses the magic and beauty of New Zealand native bush, exotic forest and the villages of Atiamuri, Whakamaru, Mangakino and Arapuni where an idyllic pace of life greets you.
Be inspired as you cycle past magnificent hydro dams, over suspension bridges, significant wetlands, while soaking up expansive lake and river landscapes.
The trail is mostly flat with some short steep sections. It is made up of several intermediate to advanced trails that provide opportunity for day excursions. For more information on the trail sections and maps visit WaikatoRiverTrails.co.nz.
Crowdriff
Highlights
Plan your trip
The Waikato River Trails are located in the middle of the North Island, conveniently close to State Highway 1, closer to the popular tourist town of Taupō where there’s lots more great riding to be had. There are small-scale but helpful services all around the trail; it will pay to book advance for both the busy summer period, and the quiet winter months when some businesses run on limited hours.
To get to the Waikato River Trails from Taupo, drive north on State Highway 1, then follow signs for specific trail sections like Arapuni, Karapiro, Waipapa, Maraetai, and Whakamaru, each well-signposted and accessible from SH1 or SH30.
Nationwide Intercity buses service all the towns along State Highway 1, while smaller shuttle operators provide local services.
Bike hire, Transport & Tours
Casual bike hire is available on the trail in Arapuni and Mangakino. Based in larger towns close to the trail are shuttle operators who can provide bikes and transport, with some offering tour services such as luggage transfers and accommodation bookings.
Cyclists can stop overnight in lakeside campgrounds and lodges along the trail, or arrange shuttle transport to other accommodation nearby.
Note that the villages on the trail relatively small with limited visitor capacity, so it will pay book in advance regardless of the time of year.
There are also council-run campsites along the river: Jones Landing, Little Waipapa Reserve, Dunham’s Point Reserve, Whakamaru Recreation Reserve or Mangakino Lakefront Reserve.
Taupō (within an hour’s drive) has a wide range of accommodation both in town and around, all close to cafes, a supermarket and other visitor services. Kinloch has a respectable range of (predominantly homestay) options, too, but limited capacity makes it essential to book space in advance, the earlier the better if you plan to ride in peak season (December–March).
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.
Whether you're tackling the Waikato River Trails or exploring more forest routes of the Great Lake Trails, the Taupō region offers unforgettable rides amidst supervolcanic landscapes and lush wilderness. With over 30 trails and more than 380 kilometers of riding paths, your adventure through this biking paradise is sure to be exhilarating and memorable.
The Waikato River Trails are divided into five sections, each offering a unique adventure. You'll find everything from gently rolling paths to steeper, more rugged trails. The trails are graded from 3 (Intermediate) to 4 (Advanced). While most are wide and smooth, some, particularly in the Waipapa section, feature trickier single-tracks. A mountain bike is recommended for the best experience, ensuring you can handle the varied terrain and enjoy the scenic beauty to the fullest.in bikers and walkers can explore a series of cycle trails along New Zealand's longest river - the mighty Waikato River.
Enjoy a scenic e-bike tour and learn about our breathtaking Huka Falls, the mighty crystal clear Waikato River, Aratiatia Dam & Rapids. Finish with a ride past an incredible geothermal stream in Wairakei. (previous MTB experience is good).
This is a short but beautiful track that weaves its way through native forest and includes a short steep climb, a picturesque river ford and some wooden bridges. This is an intermediate trail with lots of fun to be had.
The Great Lake Trail Waihaha-Waihora section Including return road transfer, scenic boat transfer and bike hire to enjoy one of the best one day trails in the North Island. Some previous trail riding is important as it is an intermediate trail.
Known as one of the best adventure mountain bike rides in New Zealand. A 46km Grade 3 guided mountain e-bike tour through the Tongariro Forest. The 42 Traverse takes you into sub-alpine New Zealand with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Newly renovated In the Tranquil village of Mangakino, Lake Maraetai Lodge is located moments from Lake Maraetai, and sits conveniently between the Waipapa and Maraetai sections of the Waikato River Cycle trail.