Taupō features breathtaking landscapes and thrilling activities. Visitors can explore quaint resort towns, relax in lakeside villages, and enjoy luxurious lodges. With adventures like water sports and hiking, Taupō guarantees an unforgettable experience of discovery and excitement.
Trail Info & Elevation
Total Distance
75 KmTotal Time
9 - 12 hrs CyclingAbility
Grade 3 | IntermediateTrail Types
Forrest | Pumice | River | DirtDescent
29.7km*Elevation
555mClimb
34.8km*Flat
9.1km*Riding the Waihaha Section
The Great Lake Trails are a journey of volcanic discovery around the rim of Lake Taupō, a supervolcano formed after one of Earth’s largest known eruptions. The volcano ejected pumice over the land, gifting the area with free-draining soils perfect for all-season riding.
Flowing, purpose-built mountain bike trails will take you through lush native forest, past sparkling waterfalls, towering volcanic cliffs, and over deep gorges. Striking rock formations depict the area’s fascinating volcanic history, and a stop at Echo Rock will have you thinking you’re standing near a waterfall. Ride to elevated lookouts with spectacular views of snowy volcanic peaks and down to secluded swimming beaches to cool off in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Taupō.
Consistently rated highly for rider experience, the Great Lake Trails boast exhilarating downhills, fun switchbacks, and cambered berms to deliver true singletrack heaven for riders. The trails were built by mountain bikers, for mountain bikers, realising the pipedream of a community that lives and breathes cycling.
The Great Lake Trails traverse some of the most remote areas of the lake shore on a stretch of land between Waihaha Bridge in the west to Whakaipo Bay in the north. A boat shuttle links the different sections of the trail, providing pick-ups and drop-offs from various picturesque bays along the trail.
The Great Lake Trails will take you into a truly ancient area that is interwoven with Maori history and storeys from a time past. You can feel the history surrounding you as you ride into the forest, and the landscape unfolds to reveal stunning views across the water to the majestic volcanic mountains of the Tongariro National Park. Dramatic scenery combines with serene lake views, powerful waterfalls, native bird songs, and incredible trail quality to deliver an unforgettable experience.

Plan Your Trip
Ride Within Your Abilities
| Grade Rating | Techincal 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.
Safety Guidelines
Ride Within Your Abilities
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 | Techincal 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.
The Great Lake Trails are proud to be part of Ngā Haerenga - The New Zealand Cycle Trails network.
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Complete SurveyExplore the Supervolcanic Great Lake Trails
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Beyond the Trails
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