Riding the Otaketake Trail

The Otaketake Trail is an enchanting segment of the Great Lake Trails & Great Rides NZ, celebrated for its picturesque scenery and diverse terrain. This trail provides mountain bikers with a blend of technical stretches and smoother segments, catering to various skill levels. It begins in the Kinloch area, where riders access the trail through the Kawakawa section, opening up possibilities for extended exploration around Lake Taupo.

Navigating the Otaketake Trail immerses you in breathtaking native bush, setting a vibrant scene for the thrilling route ahead. It features sharp turns, steep inclines, and swift descents that test even the most seasoned bikers. The journey offers expansive views of the landscape, with occasional glimpses of Lake Taupo peeking through the foliage.

This trail links seamlessly with other parts of the Great Lake Trails, enhancing its appeal as a versatile option for customizing riding adventures, from quick outings to full-day excursions.

Exiting onto Kawakawa Road, riders can turn right to reach the Orakau shelter via off-road paths. From here, you can choose to backtrack to Kinloch or tackle the Orakau Trail and K2K, completing an excellent 35 km loop that promises a challenging and picturesque riding experience.

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