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Kinloch: Meeting Ground for Taupō’s Great Lake Trails

20-minutes from Taupō town sits Kinloch, gateway to the Great Lake Trails - one of 23 Great Rides of New Zealand. With rides heading east and west from the idyllic bay, Kinloch is a cornerstone to the Supervolcanics, boasting mountain biking trails for everyone, and services to get you on them with ease.

Trail Stats

  • Total Distance
    87.1 Km
  • Ability
    Easy to Intermediate
  • Trail Types
    Forest | Pumice | Urban Pathway

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Featured Rides

The Great Lake Trails deservedly grabs the Supervolcanics headlines. At Kinloch’s doorstep, riders are spoiled with a highlight reel of memorable rides: the Waihaha section, Whakaipo Section and the Kawakawa Section offers something special for all appetites.

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Individual trails

The Great Lake Trails are made up of eight trails, offering all riders a smorgasbord of terrain and environments. From wetlands to wide expanse, switchbacks to swing bridges, scroggin-powered climbs, volcanic cliff-top visitas and native infused adventures.

  • 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

    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

    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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Plan your mountain bike trip to Taupō

Set off from Taupō town, Tūrangi, Kinloch or one of the smaller villages, or catch a water taxi or bike shuttle to the start of trails further afield. You can explore by yourself, hire a guide or book a multi-day package deal. Our local bike shop staff can give you the inside word on the best experience and gear for you.

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Explore the Supervolcanic Trail Network

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.

Location Riding Ability Experience

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Après-bike

When your bike comes to rest but you’ve still got something in the tank, Taupō has a range of bangers saved for the encore. The 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
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  3. Outdoor & adventure
  4. Cycling & mountain biking
  5. Location
  6. Kinloch