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Forest Rides: Adventure with Ancient Giants & Birdsong

Wilderness is open for business, the business of biking. Lake Taupō is guarded almost 360 degrees by deep and divine forests and you can ride into ancient history among buoyant and abundant birdlife. Iconic rides such as the Kaimanawa Descent and 42 Traverse take forest riding into our native and natural kingdom.

Trail Stats and Map

  • Total Distance
    177.2 Km
  • Ability
    Easy to Expert
  • Trail Types
    Forest | Pumice | River | Dirt

Click on the map to enlarge and magnify

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Featured Rides

Log out and get among the enchanted Supervolcanics forest rides. Highlighted by The Timber Trail, Kaimanawa Descent, and 42 Traverse, our time-machine trails will take you on a thrill ride back in time with a digital detox to fill your cup with nature.

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Individual trail

Wilderness is open for business, the business of biking. Lake Taupō is guarded almost 360 degrees by deep and divine forests and you can ride into ancient history among buoyant and abundant birdlife. Iconic rides such as the Timber Trail and 42 Traverse take forest riding into our native and natural kingdom.

  • 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.

    More info 
  • 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.

    More info 
  • Biking trails

    Tree Trunk Gorge

    The Tree Trunk Gorge trail will take you on a picturesque journey through the Kaimanawa Forest Park. It passes through classic central North Island beech forest, across streams and rivers and over two impressive gorges as it tracks along the upper section of the Tongariro River.

    More info 
  • Hiking & walking trails

    Kiko Loop Track

    This short loop track is a great way for walkers and mountain bikers to experience the variety of nature in the Kaimanawa Forest Park. Highlights include stunning podocarp forest and impressive views of Lake Taupō.

    More info 
  • Biking trails

    Te Iringa

    Te Iringa is a 19km long return mountain bike ride and one of the most technical grade 5 trails in New Zealand. For avid mountain bikers this is trail you must tick off your bucket list.

    More info 
  • 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.

    More info 
  • 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.

    More info 
  • 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.

    More info 

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Plan your mountain bike trip to Taupō

Every group has a plodder, party-goer, purist and planner. If you’re the planner, you’re in luck—Taupō is made for mountain biking and we have local operators and services ready to go. Accommodation, bike shuttles, equipment hire…we’ve got your squad covered.

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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.

Experience Location Riding Ability

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Après-bike

If a bike skids in the woods, does it make a sound? An important question to ponder post-ride. But before you have time to rest, action continues with sailing, jet boating, rafting, bungy, golf, fishing…or simply side into hot pools or a local frosty tube.

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Share your #LoveTaupo stories with us

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  1. Home
  2. See & do
  3. Outdoor & adventure
  4. Cycling & mountain biking
  5. Experience
  6. Forest Rides