Last updated July 2026
The Great Lake Pathway, also known as Lion’s Walk, is Taupō’s most popular lakefront route for walking and cycling. It follows the southern and western shoreline of Lake Taupō for 12.7 kilometres from the town boat harbour. Voted New Zealand’s Favourite Urban Ride in 2017, the pathway is flat, paved and shared-use, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. It offers easy access to lake views, swimming spots and picnic areas.
Practical Information
| Distance | 12.7 km one way (return ride or walk approximately 25.4 km) |
| Grade | Grade 1 — Easy. Mostly flat with gentle slopes. |
| Start | Taupō Boat Harbour, where Redoubt Street meets Ferry Road |
| Surface | Paved shared-use path |
| Dogs | Permitted (on lead in some sections) |
| Pushchairs | Suitable |
| Cost | Free |
| Time | 1.5 hours cycling or 2.5 hours walking one way |
About the Great Lake Pathway
The pathway begins at the Taupō Boat Harbour and heads along the lakefront past hotels, motels and popular bays. It provides panoramic views across Lake Taupō to the volcanic peaks of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe on clear days. Kowhai trees line parts of the route, supporting local wildlife including ducks and swans.
Multiple picnic areas, rest spots and lake access points line the path. Two Mile Bay and Three Mile Bay offer good swimming with nearby facilities. Hot water spots where geothermal activity warms the sand provide unique dipping opportunities even in cooler months. Toilet facilities are available in the bays, along with a children’s playground and barbecue area at Wharewaka Point.
The route is wide and well maintained as a shared path where cyclists give way to pedestrians. It becomes busy on summer weekends and school holidays near the boat harbour end. Parking is available at multiple points, allowing users to start and finish at convenient locations.
Cycling and Walking on the Pathway
The paved surface suits road bikes on smoother sections and hybrid or mountain bikes elsewhere. The full out-and-back journey covers around 25 km and typically takes 1.5–2.5 hours by bike or 3–4 hours on foot at a relaxed pace. Some riders combine the pathway with nearby river trails for longer loops.
Walkers enjoy the same scenic route with frequent opportunities to pause for photos, swims or picnics. The gentle terrain makes it ideal for families, beginners and those seeking a low-effort lakeside experience.
What Visitors Often Say
Families appreciate the flat, paved surface that works well for bikes, pushchairs and casual strolls with plenty of spots to stop for swims or snacks.
Visitors highlight the stunning lake and mountain views, easy access to the water and the convenience of starting anywhere along the route thanks to multiple parking areas.
Where to Learn More
Love Taupō — Great Lake Pathway: Official tourism page with trail stats, map and visitor information.
Bike Taupō — Great Lake Pathway: Local cycling group details on conditions and route description.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Great Lake Pathway suitable for children?
Yes — it is a flat Grade 1 paved path suitable for young cyclists and pushchairs on the sealed sections.
Can you swim along the Great Lake Pathway?
Yes — multiple lake access points exist, with Two Mile Bay and Three Mile Bay offering good facilities and swimming spots.
Are dogs allowed on the pathway?
Yes — dogs are permitted along the trail, though they should be kept under control and on lead where required.
How long does the full return trip take?
The 25.4 km return typically takes 1.5–2.5 hours by bike or around 3–4 hours walking at a relaxed pace.
Is the surface fully sealed?
The pathway is a paved shared-use trail throughout its length.
Is the Great Lake Pathway the same as the Great Lake Trail?
No — the Great Lake Pathway is the easy 12.7 km urban lakefront route. The Great Lake Trail is a separate 71 km Grade 3 network on the western shore.
Are there toilets and facilities along the way?
Yes — toilets are located in the bays, with additional playground and barbecue facilities at Wharewaka Point.
Can the pathway be accessed from multiple points?
Yes — parking is available along the length of the route, so users can start and finish at any convenient location.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.