The majority of rides across the Supervolcanic Trail Network are intermediate, deemed Grade 3 - thrilling adventure mixed with nature-infused serenity. Riverside to deep bush, our trails are purpose built for maximum scroggin-powered experience. Buckle up your helmets, Spoke Squad, it’s time to get offline and on-trail!
Intermediate Level Riding: Adventure & Action Packed
Trail Stats and Map
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Total Distance
377 Km
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Ability
Intermediate
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Trail Types
Forest | Pumice | River | Dirt
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Featured Rides
For Intermediate riders, the Supervolcanic Trail Network is your Disneyland. There are so many highlights, it’s hard to make a shortlist, but you can be sure our best trails feature lakes, rivers, deep bush, mountain side, bike parks, waterfalls, swing bridges and more.
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Biking trails
Waihora Trail (Great Lake Trails)
Ride amongst vast stands of Kamahi, through volcanic rock formations and past the intriguing Echo Rock before you start to descend down the Kotukutuku Stream.
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Biking trails
Kaimanawa Descent
Embark on the Kaimanawa Descent, a downhill trail that offers a thrilling ride through New Zealand's volcanic landscape. Accessible only by helicopter, this path designed for intermediate to advanced riders, winds through dense alpine forests with spectacular views of Tongariro National Park’s majestic peaks. An adrenaline-packed adventure awaits.
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Biking trails
Waihaha Trail (Great Lake Trails)
Situated within the Waihaha Section of the Great Lake Trails, the Waihaha Link Trail begins at the Waihaha River carpark and winds along the Waihaha River towards Lake Taupō. The route offers stunning views of the volcanic terrain, with the impressive Tieke Falls serving as a standout feature
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Biking trails
W2K Trail (Great Lake Trails)
The W2K trail is part of the Whakaipo Section of the Great Lake Trails. It provides great views across Lake Taupo and back down towards Kinloch, one of the most beautiful lakeside villages in the country.
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Biking trails
K2K Trail (Great Lake Trails)
Flowing downhill, stunning wetlands, secluded beaches perfect for a mid-way swim and sweeping views of Lake Taupo are just some of the highlights of the K2K Trail, part of the Kawakawa Section of the Great Lake Trails.
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Biking trails
Otaketake Trail (Great Lake Trails)
The newest section of the Great Lake Trails can be ridden by itself (12km) or part of a 36km loop that starts and finishes in Kinloch.
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Biking trails
Orakau Trail (Great Lake Trails)
The Orakau Trail is a nice gradual downhill which takes you through stunning native wetlands before dropping you into the secluded Kawakawa Bay.
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Biking trails
Rotary Ride
From Taupo town you can ride all the way to Huka Falls (and on to Aratiatia Dam), following the course of the Waikato River along the Huka Falls Rotary Ride.
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Biking trails
River Side Trail
The River Side Trail in Taupō is a scenic, two-way path along the Waikato River between Control Gates Bridge and Spa Thermal Park. Ideal for all ages, it offers gentle terrain, stunning river views, and lush native bush. The trail connects to the Rotary Ride and Huka Trails, passes Cherry Island and River Side Reserve, and climbs behind Taupo Bungy, ending at Spa Thermal Park.
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Biking trails
Huka Falls to Aratiatia Dam Trail
This grade 2-3 loop trail is perfect for the whole family. Highlights include river views, the impressive Aratiatia Dam release, stunning native bush and a hidden geothermal stream.
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Biking trails
Timber Trail
The 85km long Timber Trail is a unique mountain bike ride across ancestral Maori lands, taking you deep into the ancient Pureora Forest Park in New Zealand's central North Island.
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Biking trails
42 Traverse
The 42 Traverse takes you on an adventure through remote, rugged terrain, following an old logging road in former State Forest 42. Best enjoyed in summer, it features ruts, washouts, and river crossings. With a 520m descent, it's great for experienced and intermediate riders seeking a thrilling ride and breathtaking views.
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Biking trails
Waihaha Hut Track
The Waihaha Hut Track is set in native forest within the Pureora Forest Park on the western side of Lake Taupo.
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Biking trails
The Maraetai Trail
Explore the Maraetai Trail, starting right next to the Whakamaru Dam. This scenic route takes you through the historic Whakamaru switching station and ascends gently above the river. Wander through paths lined with pine trees and pass by peaceful farmlands where sheep and livestock graze. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in nature and local history.
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Biking trails
The Whakamaru Trail
Start at Whakamaru Dam, enjoy panoramic lake views, see Pohaturoa Rock, ride through forests and along the river, crossing small bridges and boardwalks, and finish at Dam Café. Scenic and moderately challenging with beautiful landmarks, perfect for a rewarding adventure
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Biking trails
The Waipapa Trail
Begin at Bus Stop Café, enjoy narrow forest trails, see historic dam foundations, cross wetland boardwalks, and finish at Waipapa Power Station, featuring technical paths, steep sections, and stunning views of sandstone cliffs and the river. Ideal for adventurous riders seeking a challenging and scenic route
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Biking trails
The Karapiro Trail
Start at Rhubarb Café, visit the historic suspension bridge, ride through native forests and farmland, explore boardwalks and sculptures, and pass through Huihuitaha Wetland to finish at Pokaiwhenua Bridge carpark. The trail offers a mix of gentle undulations and scenic views, making it perfect for a relaxed and enjoyable ride.
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Biking trails
The Arapuni Trail
The Arapuni Trail, part of the Waikato River Trails, offers an exhilarating ride through lush native bush and open farmlands, with breathtaking river views. Highlights include the Arapuni Dam, scenic lookouts, ancient rock formations, and the historic Arapuni Power Station and Dam, making it a memorable adventure.
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Tongariro Wilderness Adventures – EBiking Trail
Explore private landscapes in the central North Island, featuring views of Tongariro National Park. Watch for deer as you traverse rolling hills and pristine wilderness on private trails. Your journey on mixed terrain offers a unique challenge. This 2-day excursion includes off-grid accommodation, enhancing your adventure.
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Loop Rides
Loop rides are your circular route to adventure and we have some Intermediate-level riding classics! Wairakei Thermal Loop, an 18 km loop through a geothermal wonderland; Headland Loop Trail - iconic Great Lake Trail riding; and Craters Mountain Bike Park Loops.
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Biking trails
Wairakei Thermal Loop
An eighteen-kilometer loop joins together some of the favorite bike trails near the Wairakei Tourist Park, from Huka Falls to Aratiatia Dam as well as the Wairakei Resort Track. Ride through a geothermal wonderland in the Taupo region.
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Biking trails
Headland Loop Trail (Great Lake Trails)
The Headland Loop Trail starts and finishes on the W2K Trail at the top of the headland between Kinloch and Whakaipo Bay.
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Explore the Supervolcanic trails
Shift gears to find the speed, locale and vibes that make your pedals turn. Delight in Taupō’s achingly beautiful landscapes from the saddle of a bike, with over 30 rides to explore, brew your own journey to your taste: full strength, medium or family pack.
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