The K2K Trail — Kinloch to Kawakawa Bay — is one of the signature day rides in the Great Lake Trails network, connecting Kinloch village on the western shore of Lake Taupō to the secluded Kawakawa Bay via 8.4 kilometres of Grade 3 singletrack. The trail climbs to the Te Kauwae headland for panoramic lake views before descending through native bush to the bay’s sheltered shoreline.
Practical Information
| Distance | 8.4km (approximately 5.2 miles) |
| Grade | Grade 3 — Intermediate (Blue) |
| Average time | Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes one way |
| Start/finish | Kinloch village or Kawakawa Bay (linear — use shuttle or ride both ways) |
| Facilities at Kawakawa Bay | Shelter, toilet, swimming |
| Dogs | Permitted on leash |
| Part of | Great Lake Trails (Ngā Haerenga — NZ Cycle Trails) |
About the Trail
The K2K is part of the broader Great Lake Trail network, which connects Kinloch to the remote western shores of Lake Taupō through a series of linked sections. From Kinloch, the K2K climbs through native bush to the Te Kauwae headland, a high point that provides some of the best views available on the Great Lake Trails — the full sweep of the lake’s western bays spread out below, with the Tongariro peaks visible to the south on clear days.
From the headland, the trail descends back toward the lake edge, with the final section running along the lakefront before arriving at Kawakawa Bay. The bay has a shelter and toilet facilities, and the clear water makes it a popular spot for a swim mid-ride or at the end of the day.
Options and Combinations
The K2K can be ridden in either direction — from Kinloch to Kawakawa Bay or the reverse. It’s commonly combined with the Orakau Trail (which descends from Whangamata Road to Kawakawa Bay from a different direction) for a longer loop, or ridden as part of a multi-day Great Lake Trail itinerary that continues on to the Waihaha section. Boat shuttles from Kawakawa Bay can return riders to the Taupō marina or connect to other trail sections.
Getting to Kinloch
Kinloch is a 20-minute drive west from Taupō on Kinloch Road. The village has a general store and café at the marina. Boat shuttles from the Taupō marina to Kinloch are also available for those wanting to arrive by water — book in advance, especially in summer.
Where to Learn More
Love Taupō — K2K Trail
Official Taupō visitor information for the K2K Trail with route details and planning guidance.
Trailforks — K2K Trail
Detailed trail profile with map, elevation, rider reviews and current conditions for the K2K.
NZ Cycle Trail — Great Lake Trail
Official profile of the Great Lake Trail network, covering K2K and all connected sections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the K2K Trail suitable for beginners?
It’s rated Grade 3 Intermediate — some off-road experience is needed. It’s not a beginner trail, but it’s one of the more approachable intermediate options in the Great Lake Trail network.
Can you swim at Kawakawa Bay after riding the K2K?
Yes — Kawakawa Bay has a shelter and good lake access for swimming. The clear water at the bay is one of the highlights of reaching the end of the trail.
Can the K2K Trail be combined with other Great Lake Trail sections?
Yes — K2K connects directly to the Orakau Trail at Kawakawa Bay, and is part of the multi-day Great Lake Trail itinerary that also includes the Waihaha section to the west.
Do dogs need to be on a leash on the K2K Trail?
Yes — dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash.
How do I get a boat shuttle from Kawakawa Bay?
Contact the Great Lake Trail boat shuttle operators in Kinloch or Taupō — book in advance, especially during summer months.
See also: Cycling tracks in Taupō · Great Lake Trail overview · Orakau Trail