Mountain biking is a great way to experience the particular scenery from the Great Lake Trail. Where else in the world do you ride all year round (pumice) tracks with extensive views of the lake & mountains and could see people Rock climbing.
Day 1 – Waihora & Waihaha Grade 3
Distance 30km – Approx 4 – 6 hours riding. Boat transfer 30 minutes.
You’ll meet us at our base in Acacia Bay or in Kinloch where we will set off by vehicle to the start of the Waihaha section of the Great Lake Trail to begin your riding leg.
This trail has breathtaking views of the Waihaha River canyon and waterfall (a must-see hidden gem). It is surrounded by lush native bush including Tanekaha (celery pine) which is endemic to this region of the North Island. You will also see large outcrops of ancient volcanic rocks along the trail. The trail is on a mixture of pumice and natural dirt trails that descend into Kotukutuku Stream – via bridges and boardwalks to waterfall, then to the lake edge.
At the Kotukutuku landing (a tranquil bay) you will be met by the boat transporter, where we will load bikes and head back to Kinloch. Acacia Bay (if a big group) whilst eating a packed lunch.
On this trip part of the group could just ride the Waihora leg only making the journey 17km approx. 2hours riding.
Day 2 – Orakau and K2K (Kawakawa Bay to Kinloch) Grade 3
Distance 19km – Approx 2.5-3 hours
Start at Whangamata road car park, and finish in Kinloch or Whakaipo Bay.
On this Ride, you will follow the trail down Orakau stream and through flax wetlands, native bush to Kawakawa Bay (a beautiful bay on the lake edge) – along the way see Tongariro national park. From Kawakawa bay start steadily climbing rough native bush to headland which provides great views over Lake Taupo, at headland you will start descending back down into Kinloch, for a lunch break then continue onto W2K (Kinloch to Whakiapo Bay) if you want too.
On this trip part of the group could just ride the Orakau leg and have a boat transfer back to Kinloch. Additional Boat Transfer charges may apply.
Guided Tour Includes:
- Guide / Full instruction
- Hard Tail Mountain bike, helmet, and puncture repair kit
- Lunch, snacks and refreshments
- DOC concession fee
- Boat Transfer
- Transport to and from tracks – from our base or
- Transport from Taupo CBD if you do not have your own transport to get to our base (on request only).
Having a guide is a great way to maximize the enjoyment of the trip for all participating. Our guides will not only show you the way and manage any incidents, they will brief riders on upcoming trail segments and can also explain some of the history of the area. Our guides strive to provide the best possible biking experience, catering the trip to suit each individual’s needs and riding ability. They provide for a safer trip and are also very handy for unexpected incidents such as a tyre puncture.
Bike Hire & 2 Way Transport Includes:
- Hard Tail Mountain bike, helmet, and puncture repair kit
- Bike Lock (optional)
- DOC concession fee
- Boat Transfer
- Transport to and from tracks – from our base or
- Tran