The Riverside Trail in Taupō is a scenic walking and cycling path along the Waikato River, connecting Control Gates Bridge on the southern edge of the town centre to Spa Thermal Park on Spa Road. The trail follows the river bank past Cherry Island, through the Riverside Reserve, before climbing gently up behind Taupō Bungy to reach Spa Park. It is part of the broader Huka Trails network and is one of the more accessible river walks in the area — easy terrain, river views throughout, and no entry fee.
Practical Information
| Route | Control Gates Bridge (south end of town) to Spa Thermal Park, Spa Road |
| Distance | Approximately 3 km one-way |
| Time | 45–60 minutes one-way walking; 15–20 minutes cycling |
| Grade | Easy — gentle terrain, mostly flat with a gradual ascent near Spa Park |
| Entry | Free, open all hours |
| Network | Huka Trails (connects to Rotary Ride and Spa Park to Huka Falls Walk) |
| Bikes | Welcome — a popular cycling connection in Taupō |
The Route
The trail begins at the Control Gates Bridge area, where the Waikato River exits Lake Taupō and begins its journey north. The Control Gates are the dam structure that regulates the lake level and river flow — a practical piece of infrastructure that also marks the start of the Waikato River proper. From here the trail follows the true left bank downstream past Cherry Island, a small river island that makes for a pleasant stop and photo point.
Beyond Cherry Island, the trail passes through the Riverside Reserve — a stretch of native riparian planting along the river bank. The terrain remains gentle. The final section climbs gradually up behind the Taupō Bungy site before dropping into Spa Thermal Park on Spa Road, where the Otumuheke Stream hot pools are located at the river’s edge. Spa Park is also the southern trailhead for the Spa Park to Huka Falls Walk.
Connections
The Riverside Trail links naturally with the rest of the Huka Trails network. From Spa Thermal Park, the Spa Park to Huka Falls Walk continues 3 km north along the Waikato River to Huka Falls — making a combined walk from Control Gates to Huka Falls of approximately 6 km one-way. Cyclists use the Riverside Trail as the connection between the town centre and the broader Huka Trails cycling network.
What Visitors Say
“A lovely easy walk along the river from town to the hot pools — we started at Control Gates, stopped at the hot pools in Spa Park for a soak, then continued to Huka Falls. A great way to spend a morning in Taupō.”
Where to Learn More
Love Taupō – River Side Trail — official visitor guide to the trail with route details and access information.
Love Taupō – Huka Trails — overview of the full Huka Trails network that the Riverside Trail connects into.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Riverside Trail start in Taupō?
The southern end is at Control Gates Bridge, accessible from Tongariro Street (State Highway 1) at the southern edge of the Taupō town centre. The northern end is Spa Thermal Park on Spa Road.
Can I cycle the Riverside Trail?
Yes — the trail is used by both walkers and cyclists and is part of the Huka Trails cycling network. It is a popular route for cycling from the town centre to Spa Park and beyond.
Is the Riverside Trail free?
Yes — the trail is free to use at all hours.
What is Cherry Island?
Cherry Island is a small river island in the Waikato River, passed on the Riverside Trail between Control Gates Bridge and Spa Park. It is a scenic feature along the river walk.
Can I combine the Riverside Trail with other walks?
Yes — the trail connects directly to the Spa Park to Huka Falls Walk at its northern end, making a combined route from Control Gates to Huka Falls of approximately 6 km one-way.
The Riverside Trail is part of the Taupō walking tracks network. The Spa Park to Huka Falls Walk continues the river journey north from Spa Thermal Park to Huka Falls.