The Supervolcanic Trail Network
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.
Add your alert message…
Add your alert message…
Add your alert message…
Add your alert message…
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.

K2 Trail (Great lake trails)
Otaketake Trail
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.
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.
Complete the Great Lake Trails Survey
Help us improve your trail experience. Complete our survey to be in the draw to win a $200nzd Torpedo7 voucher.
Complete SurveyExplore the Supervolcanic Great Lake Trails
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur. Dis sit augue urna integer orci lectus. Pellentesque massa lectus commodo mattis dui. Purus vulputate in ante pretium.
-
Things to Do
-
Eat & Drink
-
Bike Friendly Accomodation
Bike Shuttles, Guides & Tours
Displaying 6 of 20
-
- Business
- Conferences
Riverside Retreat
Pataka Lookout Apartment
Tucked privately below the main dwelling (which will not be occupied during your stay), the apartment features an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area, providing everything needed for a relaxing and enjoyable stay. With a flexible bedding configuration, plus a sofa bed in ...
$400.00 - $650.00 NZD
-
- Business
Hoani Honey - Kuratau Holiday Home
Bay Bliss - Lake Taupō Holiday Home
From the moment you turn into this quiet cul de sac you’ll know you’ve chosen the right spot for a peaceful, family-friendly lakeside getaway. The central park and playground make the perfect foreground to the stunning lakeview you’ll find when you head upstairs. Decorated with ...
$305.00 - $748.00 NZD
-
Lake Luxe Apartment
Ultimate Lakefront Location
With three bedrooms each with Queen beds, fully equipped kitchen, two big screen TV’s, SKY, WIFI, front and rear decks as well as a spa pool you will think there is not much more you could possibly want, but wait there's more - the ultimate entertainer’s outdoor area including ...
$570.00 - $625.00 NZD
-
Hoani Honey - Kuratau Holiday Home
Hatepe Haven - Hatepe Holiday Home
Best described as a quintessential Kiwi Bach (holiday home), you’ll have no trouble switching to holiday mode as soon as you set foot into Hatepe Haven. Settle into your dreamy escape by firing up the BBQ, reclining on the outdoor furniture with a chilled drink & raising a ...
$212.00 - $511.00 NZD
-
Lake Luxe Apartment
Nga Roto Retreat
This ex showhome is beautifully designed and built, with modern features throughout, including underfloor heating, gas fireplace, air-conditioning, high-ceilings, spacious designer kitchen, walk-in showers in both the main bathroom and master bedroom ensuite, deep bathtub and a ...
$690.00 - $800.00 NZD
-
Riverside Retreat
Retreat on Kiwi
The nearby shopping centre offers a fantastic 4 Square, Heritage Meats artisan butcher, and Tui’s Nest Café - famous for its homemade food and unbeatable cheese scones. For an easy dinner, the local Chinese takeaway is just steps away, and the Brantry Restaurant is a 2-minute ...
$300.00 - $550.00 NZD
-
Hoani Honey - Kuratau Holiday Home
Puketapu - Kuratau Holiday Home
This central plateau holiday home is a hidden treasure that's a must-see - Welcome to Puketapu. Thoughtfully decorated and furnished with an eye for comfort, you can't help but feel welcomed and relaxed from the minute you arrive. Spread across two levels, Puketapu offers ample ...
$513.00 - $1,047.00 NZD
-
Tongariro Raft-Fishing
Tongariro Raft-Fishing
Rafting New Zealand are proud to offer the ultimate Raft Fishing Tongariro fly fishing trips. Fly Fishing and Rafting on the spectacular Upper Tongariro River is the ultimate Fly Fishing adventure. This water opens for angling and fly fishing trips every year on the 1st of ...
-
Charters and Transfers
Scenic Flights
Have a front-row seat to the North Island’s most breathtaking landscapes with our mountain scenic flights, offering unforgettable aerial journeys over the Central Plateau, Tongariro National Park, and beyond. Operating an AS350 helicopter with spacious seating and panoramic ...
$4,000.00 - $10,000.00 NZD
-
Views on Victory
Views on Victory
Set in a safe & quiet residential street this private guest suite has it's own entrance, deck, and self check-in. Features quality linens, ensuite with toiletries, air con, and smart TV with streaming. Kitchenette includes fridge, microwave, toaster, kettle, tea, coffee and ...
$220.00 - $250.00 NZD
-
Taupō Pedal Boats - Water Bike Hire
Stand up paddle-board (SUP) Rental
We have 7 SUP's which are suitable for children and adults. They are easy to operate and a fun way to explore the Lake. Easy for beginners, although you may get wet. They are a great activity for all ages and makes for some pretty cool stories and photo ops. Paddle about, or ...
-
Mahuta Point
Mahuta Point
Mahuta Point is a traditional Kiwi bach (holiday home) in Waitahanui, lovingly restored to blend classic Lake Taupō character with modern comfort. Inside are 3 bedrooms sleeping up to 7, 1.5 bathrooms, a full kitchen and an open-plan living area warmed by a fireplace. The heart ...
$550.00 NZD
-
Blake House at Poronui | Exclusive-use Fully Catered Private Villa
Poronui Lodge
Nestled in the secluded Taharua valley, Poronui is a vast wilderness property providing a wide range of adventures for the outdoor enthusiast, as well as family holidays, romantic getaways and corporate retreats. Whether your passion is fly fishing, shooting, sporting clays, ...
$1,400.00 - $3,030.00 NZD
-
Lake Luxe Apartment
Relax at Richmond Heights
Perfectly set up, extensively renovated throughout with 4 bedrooms (1 downstairs), 2 bathrooms (1 downstairs), a light and bright entertainers’ kitchen and spacious living areas. Summer or Winter, finding the perfect spot to unwind and put your feet up isn’t hard here, there are ...
$380.00 - $600.00 NZD
-
Hoani Honey - Kuratau Holiday Home
Te Kuru Cabin - Pukawa Bay Holiday Home
Te Kuru Cabin is a tucked away and surrounded by native greenery, creating a private escape for your next trip to Pukawa Bay. Whether it is Summer or Winter this cabin is fitted with all the essentials you might need for easy holiday living, including a dishwasher and TV. Sit by ...
-
Hoani Honey - Kuratau Holiday Home
Lakefront Gem - Kuratau Holiday Home
Boasting picturesque views of Lake Taupō, open the windows and doors and feel the cool breeze coming off the lake as you kick back and get into the full swing of holiday mode. Create that all-important indoor-outdoor flow onto the sheltered deck or patio, where you’ll find the ...
$217.00 - $583.00 NZD
-
New Zealand Customised Fly Fishing Tours - The New Zealand Fly Fishing Company
Tongariro River & Turangi Fly Fishing Guides The New Zealand Fly Fishing Company
Let our friendly experienced Turangi fly fishing guides share some of the most exciting fly fishing in New Zealand and around the world. We’ll get you in front of hard fighting rainbows & big brown trout on the world famous Tongariro River & take you on backcountry river ...
-
Hoani Honey - Kuratau Holiday Home
Lakeside Terrace – Taupō Holiday Home
Open the sliding doors wide and relax under the umbrella on the deck while the BBQ sizzles. Soak in the bath after a day of exploring the cycle and walking trails while your family enjoys a selection of puzzles, DVDs, and CDs for the stereo. This two-bedroom, two-bathroom family ...
$163.00 - $386.00 NZD
-
Kaimanawa Ranges Epic 3 Day Adventure
Maori Rock Carvings with Taupo Kayaking Adventures
The impressive 14m high Maori Rock Carvings is located at Mine Bay on Lake Taupo, and is only accessible by boat or kayak. Come with us as we take you below native bush, past steep cliffs and mini inlets before arriving at the amazing carvings. Your experienced guide will ...
-
Kaimanawa Ranges Epic 3 Day Adventure
Taupo Kayaking Adventures Geothermal Tours
Experience New Zealand's geothermal wonders with Taupo Kayaking Adventures as we take you on a kayak trip down the Waikato River past amazing geothermal features. You have the option of stoping for a warm shower and soak under a natural hot springs waterfall before taking a ...
Beyond the Trails
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur. Dis sit augue urna integer orci lectus. Pellentesque massa lectus commodo mattis dui. Purus vulputate in ante pretium.
-
Things to Do
-
Eat & Drink
-
Bike Friendly Accomodation