Great Lake Trail

Great Lake Trail Part of the NZ Cycle Trail network. Bike or hike the epic journey to invigorate your senses. The trail follows the edge of beautiful Lake Taupo.

Imagine extensive native bush, dramatic snow capped mountains, serene lake views, powerful waterfalls and lyrical bird song, just some of the delights to be enjoyed. The trail follows the western shore of beautiful Lake Taupō, Australasia’s largest fresh water lake and takes in the stunning views across the water to the majestic volcanic mountains of the Tongariro National Park, a dual World Herit

age area. Many of western areas on Lake Taupō are only accessible by the Great Lake Trail so it is a gem for those seeking peace and tranquility. There are two parts to the Great Lake Trail - a 30 km section on the western side of Lake Taupo and a 55 km section on the northern side of the lake. Riders have the option of riding the full trail over 2 – 3 days or opt for a range of shorter rides depending on their level of experience and the time available. If you're walking, it's going to take longer... The trail can be used year round as the free draining pumice soil surface means that even in wet weather there is normally little or no mud. Winter is a great time as the air is crisp and clear and the mountains look incredible. You may even see the steam rising from the volcanic activity at the Te Maari Crater on Mt Tongariro. The Great Lake Trail is part of Nga Haerenga, the New Zealand Cycle Trail (NZCT) network. Nga Haerenga means 'the journeys’, both in a physical and spiritual sense, which is what you will experience on the Great Lake Trail. It has been built and is maintained by Bike Taupō, a cycling advocacy group who are also skilled track builders. Bike Taupō’s MTB tracks are well renown and were recently accredited by the International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) as a Silver Ride Centre, the first in NZ. This confirms our MTB tracks are world class and we're proud of them. They include the Craters MTB Park in the Wairakei Forest and the Upper Waikato River Trails which meander along the Waikato River to the famous Huka Falls and mesmerising Aratiatia Rapids.

28/01/2026
04/01/2026
28/12/2025

Last chance to make this ride happen!

We need a few more riders now to confirm the Waihaha to Waihora bike ride on Saturday 17 January. If you’ve been thinking about it, now’s the moment to book your spot (and maybe bring a friend!)

This is a rare chance to explore one of the more remote sections of the Great Lake Trail, riding alongside the Waihaha River, through quiet valleys and along dramatic volcanic clifftops high above the lake. Along the way, Department of Conservation and Bike Taupō will share insights into local biodiversity and the mahi behind caring for this special place. The day finishes with a scenic boat shuttle back to Kinloch, the perfect way to soak up those lake views.

We need 14 riders for this trip to go ahead, bookings are closing soon.

Book now: www.tongariro.org.nz/mahi-aroha

Showcasing an awesome part of the Great Lake Trails! This boat ride is a great part of the Waihaha section.
13/12/2025

Showcasing an awesome part of the Great Lake Trails! This boat ride is a great part of the Waihaha section.

Spare a thought for the trail crew who are currently out on the Waihaha section of the Great Lake Trails doing the mahi!...
16/10/2025

Spare a thought for the trail crew who are currently out on the Waihaha section of the Great Lake Trails doing the mahi!

01/10/2025

If you have ridden or walked any of the Great Lake Trails recently please complete this survey. Survey responses help us get central government funding and also let us know what we need to do to ensure the trails are in the best condition.

The Kinloch Off-Road Challenge is happening this weekend! 🏃‍♀️🌿Most of the course takes place on the stunning Great Lake...
04/09/2025

The Kinloch Off-Road Challenge is happening this weekend! 🏃‍♀️🌿

Most of the course takes place on the stunning Great Lake Trail, with all the action starting and finishing at the Kinloch Domain.

👉 If you’re out riding, running, or walking the trails, please be extra mindful as there will be plenty of runners and walkers out enjoying the event. Let’s keep the trails safe and fun for everyone!

🙌 Good luck to all participants, enjoy the scenery and the challenge!

Once you have ridden the Great Lake Trails, there are so many other awesome trails to ride (and walk) in our rohe! take ...
14/08/2025

Once you have ridden the Great Lake Trails, there are so many other awesome trails to ride (and walk) in our rohe! take a few days extra and check them all out.

11/08/2025

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PO BOX 1850
Taupo
3330

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