Last updated July 2026
The Great Lake Trail offers Taupō visitors a signature multi-day cycling adventure along the remote western and northern shores of Lake Taupō. This Grade 3 intermediate trail winds through native forest, volcanic landscapes and secluded bays as part of the Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails network. Riders experience flowing singletrack on free-draining pumice soil that supports year-round use, with boat shuttles enabling flexible itineraries from day rides to full journeys. The trail crosses lands associated with Ngāti Tūwharetoa and showcases dramatic views of the Taupō Volcanic Zone and Tongariro National Park volcanoes.
Practical Information
| Total distance | Sections combine for rides of 13–30 km or more; full combinations over 2–3 days |
| Grade | Grade 3 — Intermediate |
| Time | 2–3 days for major sections; individual sections 1.5–5 hours |
| Start/finish | Sections accessible from Kinloch; Waihaha from Waihaha River car park to Waihora Bay |
| Boat shuttles | Available for linking sections and remote access; pre-book essential |
| Best season | Year-round due to free-draining pumice soil |
| Cost | Trail access free; shuttles, bike hire and accommodation extra |
| Dogs | Permitted on leash; horses not permitted |
About the Great Lake Trail
The Great Lake Trail threads around the edge of Lake Taupō through lush native forest, wetlands, gorges and waterfalls. Spectacular lookouts provide views across the lake to Tongariro National Park volcanoes, while tranquil bays offer swimming and picnic opportunities. The volcanic setting forms part of the Taupō Volcanic Zone, adding dramatic rock gardens and cliff-top perspectives throughout the ride.
The trail is divided into four main sections, all reachable from Kinloch. The Waihaha section covers 30 km of remote riding from the Waihaha River car park to Waihora Bay, featuring river gorges, Tieke Falls and lake-edge scenery. The Kawakawa section runs 19.5 km from Orakau car park to Kinloch via Kawakawa Bay with wetlands and flowing singletrack. The Otaketake section adds a 12 km link opened in 2019 through bush and viewpoints. The W2K section spans 13–22.5 km between Whakaipo Bay and Kinloch, with an optional 9.5 km Headland Loop offering expansive views.
Shared use with walkers requires riders to yield on busier sections near Kinloch. Moderate climbs, rocky sections and roots suit riders with mountain biking experience and suitable bikes, including e-bikes with adequate battery range for remote areas.
Trail Sections and Day Rides
Each section supports independent day rides or loops. Popular options include the 32 km Otaketake–K2K loop and the Headland Loop from Kinloch. Boat taxis connect the remote Waihaha section to other trails, while road access points allow self-supported rides. Signage and maps at trailheads aid navigation, and the Great Rides App provides offline support.
Getting There and Planning
Most visitors base themselves in Taupō or Kinloch and use shuttles or boat transfers for point-to-point rides. Pre-book shuttles, especially in summer, and check current conditions via Bike Taupō or Love Taupō. Accommodation in Kinloch suits overnight stays, with cafes and services available there. Carry all food, water and repair supplies as none exist on the trail beyond Kinloch.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the flowing singletrack, stunning lake and volcano views, and the convenience of boat shuttles for customising rides. Many highlight the remote feel of the Waihaha section and the rewarding climbs with big payoffs on descents.
Riders note the trail suits intermediate mountain bikers well, with good drainage allowing enjoyable riding in most weather. Families and groups appreciate shorter loops near Kinloch, while multi-day adventurers value the combination of scenery, swimming spots and logistics support.
Where to Learn More
NZ Cycle Trail — Great Lake Trails: Official profiles, section details, maps and planning resources.
Bike Taupō: Local trail conditions, maps, shuttle contacts and rider resources for the Taupō area.
Love Taupō — Great Lake Trails: Visitor information, shuttle operators and current alerts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Great Lake Trail suitable for beginners?
No — it is rated Grade 3 intermediate. Riders need mountain biking experience, fitness for climbs and technical sections, and appropriate bikes.
Can you ride just one section as a day trip?
Yes. All sections support day rides, with shuttles and boat transfers enabling point-to-point options from Kinloch.
How long does a full traverse take?
Most riders complete major sections over 2–3 days. Strong riders may cover combinations faster, while 3 days allows time for scenery and rest.
Is the trail open year-round?
Yes — free-draining pumice soil keeps it rideable in most conditions. Check for alerts after heavy rain or other events.
Do I need to book shuttles in advance?
Yes, particularly in peak season. Limited capacity makes early booking essential for multi-day or remote sections.
Are dogs allowed on the trail?
Dogs are permitted on leash. Horses are not allowed.
What bike is recommended?
A mountain bike is advised. E-bikes are welcome but require sufficient battery planning for remote sections.
Is cellphone coverage reliable?
Coverage is good near Kinloch but patchy on more remote sections such as Waihaha.
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