The Great Lake Pathway — commonly known as Lion’s Walk — is Taupō’s most popular lakefront cycling and walking route, stretching about 10 kilometres along the shoreline of Lake Taupō from the town boat harbour. Voted New Zealand’s Favourite Urban Ride in 2017, it is flat, mostly sealed and suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Practical Information
| Distance | ~10km one way (ride out and back, or loop with other tracks) |
| Grade | Grade 1 — Easy. Mostly flat with gentle slopes. |
| Start | Taupō Boat Harbour, where Redoubt Street meets Ferry Road |
| Surface | Approximately 5km sealed; remainder compacted gravel path |
| Dogs | Permitted on lead |
| Pushchairs | Suitable |
| Cost | Free |
About the Pathway
The pathway begins at the Taupō Boat Harbour at the end of Redoubt Street and follows the southern and western shoreline of the lake. The route takes in lake views across to the volcanic peaks of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe on clear days — a panorama that makes this one of the most visually rewarding easy rides in New Zealand.
Along the way, there are several picnic areas and rest spots where riders and walkers can stop, and multiple points with lake access for a swim. The Two Mile Bay area offers good swimming with facilities, and the lakefront parks along the route are popular for picnics throughout summer.
What to Expect
The path is wide and well-maintained throughout. The sealed section closest to the boat harbour is smooth enough for road bikes; further along, the compacted gravel surface suits hybrid bikes and mountain bikes. The track is a shared path — cyclists give way to pedestrians. It’s busy on summer weekends and school holidays, particularly near the boat harbour end.
The full out-and-back return is around 20km, typically taking 1.5–2.5 hours by bike at a relaxed pace, or around 3–4 hours on foot. Some riders combine Lion’s Walk with the Huka Trails river path for a longer loop.
Where to Learn More
Bike Taupō — Great Lake Pathway
Trail description, map and conditions from Taupō’s local cycling advocacy group.
Love Taupō — Great Lake Pathway
Official Taupō tourism page for the pathway with current visitor information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Great Lake Pathway suitable for children?
Yes — it’s flat, wide and Grade 1. Young children on bikes can manage the pathway easily, and pushchairs are also suitable on the sealed sections.
Can you swim along the Great Lake Pathway?
Yes — there are multiple lake access points along the route. Two Mile Bay has the best facilities for swimming.
How long does Lion’s Walk take by bike?
The full out-and-back (around 20km return) takes about 1.5–2 hours at a relaxed pace. Most casual riders do the one-way 10km in around 45–60 minutes.
Is the Great Lake Pathway the same as the Great Lake Trail?
No — they are different. The Great Lake Pathway (Lion’s Walk) is an easy 10km urban lakefront route. The Great Lake Trail is a 71km Grade 3 multi-day ride on the remote western shore of the lake.
See also: Cycling tracks in Taupō · Swimming in Taupō · Parks and reserves