The Supervolcanic Trail Network features two ‘Great Rides’ - the Great Lake Trails and the Waikato River Trails. The trails are part of 23 Great Rides of New Zealand, and the Ngā Haerenga - The New Zealand Cycle Trails network. Ride them entirely or in parts, solo or crew, day trip or multi-day - you’re in charge.
Great Rides of New Zealand within the Supervolcanics
Trail Stats and Map
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Total Distance
180.9 Km
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Ability
Internmediate
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Trail Types
Forest | Pumice | Rivers | Dirt
Click on the map to enlarge and magnify
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Featured Rides
The Great Lake Trails are made up of eight trails - a tasty scroggin of wetlands, swing bridges, volcanic visitas and nourishing native. Up the road, the Waikato River Trails have five soulful riverside sections. Enjoy Great Rides in parts or in one gulp.
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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
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
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
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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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
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
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
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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Plan your mountain bike trip to Taupō
Great Rides require great planning and we’ve done it all in advance. Taupō is mountain biking Mecca so we’re equipped to get you and your squad on the trail. Our local operators and services have you covered for accommodation, bike shuttles and equipment hire.
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Explore the Supervolcanic trails
The Great Lake Trails are made up of eight trails - a tasty scroggin of wetlands, swing bridges, volcanic visitas and nourishing native. Up the road, the Waikato River Trails have five soulful riverside sections. Enjoy Great Rides in parts or in one gulp.
SV HR Line
SV HR Line