The Waihaha Trail is the westernmost section of the Great Lake Trails — a 71-kilometre grade 3 mountain biking and walking journey along the western shore of Lake Taupō. The Waihaha section follows the Waihāhā River through a dramatic landscape of volcanic rock cliffs and native forest, ending at the remote Whanganui Bay area of the lake. This is one of the most scenically distinct sections of the trail, with views of the Waihāhā River canyon and a secluded waterfall at Tieke Falls.
Practical Information
| Location | Western Lake Taupō — trailhead at Waihāhā River carpark, Western Bay Road (SH32) |
| Distance | 17km (one way) |
| Walking time | 4 hours one way |
| Cycling time | 2 hours one way |
| Grade | Grade 3 — intermediate; some previous off-road experience recommended |
| Logistics | Requires pre-booked shuttle drop-off AND boat pick-up at the far end |
| Shuttle/boat | Must be pre-booked through Great Lake Trails operators |
About the Trail
From the Waihāhā River carpark on Western Bay Road (State Highway 32), the trail follows the river for a short distance before crossing on a swing bridge, then climbs onto the cliffs above. The terrain is characteristically volcanic — the landscape through here is a product of the same geothermal system that shaped the wider Taupō region, with towering volcanic rock cliffs forming the walls of the river canyon.
The trail passes through native forest for much of its length, with the Waihāhā River audible below and visible from cliff-edge viewpoints. Tieke Falls — a secluded waterfall within the Waihaha Valley — is one of the highlights along the route.
Trail Character and Difficulty
This is an intermediate trail designed for riders and walkers with some off-road experience. The trail features flowing corners, fun downhills, and some short switchback climbs. Sections are narrow, and there are both hill climbs and steep descents. It is not suitable for beginners on bikes, and walkers should be comfortable on uneven terrain.
The Waihaha Trail connects to the Waihora Trail section of the Great Lake Trails, which continues north. The full Great Lake Trails journey — from Waihaha to Waitetoko Stream — takes two to three days for cyclists.
Logistics: Shuttle and Boat
The Waihaha section is a one-way trail by design — it ends at a remote point on the lake shore that is not accessible by road. Both a shuttle drop-off at the trailhead and a boat pick-up at the far end must be pre-booked through Great Lake Trails operators before departure. This is not a trail you can do as a simple out-and-back on the day — planning is required.
What Visitors Say
“The cliff sections above the Waihaha River canyon are genuinely dramatic — it feels very remote for something only a couple of hours from Taupo. Tieke Falls is a great reward. Make sure your shuttle is booked.”
“Best section of the Great Lake Trail in my opinion. The volcanic landscape is unlike anything else in the region. Two hours on the bike flew by.”
Where to Learn More
Love Taupō – Waihaha Section covers the trail details, difficulty, distance, and booking information for shuttles and boat transfers.
DOC – Waihāhā and Waihora Tracks has track notes, conditions, and maps for the Waihaha and Waihora sections.
NZ Cycle Trail – Great Lake Trail has the full Great Lake Trails overview including all sections, grades, and journey planning information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Waihaha Trail?
The Waihaha Trail is the westernmost section of the Great Lake Trails, a grade 3 mountain biking and walking trail along the western shore of Lake Taupō. The Waihaha section is 17km and runs from the Waihāhā River carpark to a remote lake shore pick-up point.
Do I need to book a shuttle for the Waihaha Trail?
Yes. A shuttle drop-off at the trailhead and a boat pick-up at the far end are both required and must be pre-booked before you start. You cannot do this trail as an out-and-back without returning on the water.
How difficult is the Waihaha Trail?
Grade 3 — intermediate. Some previous off-road riding or walking experience is recommended. The trail has narrow sections, hill climbs, steep descents, and switchbacks.
How long does the Waihaha Trail take?
Approximately 4 hours one way on foot, or 2 hours by mountain bike.
What is Tieke Falls?
Tieke Falls is a secluded waterfall within the Waihaha Valley, visible from the trail. It is one of the scenic highlights of the Waihaha section.
Where does the Waihaha Trail start?
The trail starts at the Waihāhā River carpark on Western Bay Road (State Highway 32), on the western shore of Lake Taupō.
The Waihaha Trail is part of the Great Lake Trails network. The Kinloch Foreshore Reserve is a useful base on the western shore for Great Lake Trails riders staying in the area.