Rent a mountain bike or e-bike and follow the banks of the mighty Tongariro River, undulating through native bush and peaceful farmland. This easy, scenic trail is ideal for novice riders of all ages and will keep the whole family entertained.
Tongariro River Trail Mountain Biking – Overview |
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Cost:Mountain Bike hire: $35 Grade2 Departure Times:Guided Tongariro River Trail: 9:30am Departure Points:The Rafting Centre, 133 Atirau Rd, Turangi What you need to bring:Shorts, Polypro, Windbreaker, Sandshoes, Camera, Water Bottle. Inclusions:
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Discover the Tongariro Trail!
This 15km loop track winds in and out of the beautiful native bushland, farmland and the Tongariro River. Spot Tuis and Fantails, spy on Tongariro trout in the crystal clear waters, and try to glimpse our rare Whio (Blue Ducks) who make their homes on the riverbanks. For an extra challenge, ascend the big hill to the Tongariro River Lookout for sweeping views of the river and its stunning mountain backdrop.
With constantly-changing scenery, this well-marked, tree-covered trail provides plenty of shade in summer and shelter in the rain and wintery weather.
What makes this trail amazing?
You’ll love it – whatever the weather is doing
Shady in summer, and sheltered on wintery days – perfect if you’re on a winter ski break and the snow conditions have let you down
It’s super convenient.
Beginning a short distance from our Turangi base, you can simply park and ride – no need for shuttles.
An awesome introduction to mountain biking.
The Tongariro River Trail is mostly flat, with ride options from 12km to 15km. Opt to leave out the main hill climb if you prefer – but the views over Turangi township and the Tongariro River are worth the effort.
The trail surface is mainly graveled, which minimises the muddy bits on rainy days.
Great for families
With heaps of opportunities for trout-spotting, wild blackberry-picking (in season), picnicking, and feeling the wind in your hair, it’s a fabulous family activity for visitors to the Taupo / Turangi area.
We also have child seat attachments for younger children.
Great for older riders
This is a straightforward trail that you can tackle at your own pace, so it’s an excellent option for all ages, especially the young at heart! Of course, if you have any fitness or medical concerns, have a chat with us and we’ll help you decide if it’s right for you – the route can be shortened to suit your needs.
Great scenery
Native New Zealand forest, lush ferns, twisting mangroves and the frothy rapids of the Tongariro River are just some of the highlights of your ride.
And what about the wildlife? While you’re pedaling along, you’re likely to hear the local tui birds bursting into song, while the tiny fantails show off their acrobatic skills for your amusement. Keep your eyes peeled for Whio (Blue Ducks), who nest in pairs along the riverbank. These endangered ducks are close to our hearts, and this is a rare opportunity to see them in the wild.
Let Tongariro Mountain Biking take care of everything.
We’re the best-located mountain bike rental company for the Tongariro River Trail – it’s nearly on our doorstep. Park your car at our Turangi base and collect your high-quality, well-maintained mountain bikes – we’ll ensure you get the right size and fit. Leave any belongings safely with us and you can cycle to the start of the trail – it’s only 5 minutes away!
More than just a bike hire company, at Tongariro Mountain Biking we don’t just send you on your way. We’ll give you maps, safety tips and advice so you can be confident of a smooth and easy ride.
We’ll also brief you on some local secrets and hidden gems we don’t want you to miss – after all this is our backyard and we know every inch of it.
Tailor your ride – Awesome extras (see pricing above)
Ride with a guide
The Tongariro River Trail loop is easy to follow on your own, but riding with an experienced local guide alongside you takes your trip to another level. Hear the stories of our past and discover examples of our rich natural and cultural history. We can teach you some new mountain bike skills to take away with you too.
Combine your ride with a rafting trip
For an action-packed day or weekend in the Southern Lake Taupo region, why not combine your mountain bike ride with a white water rafting adventure on the Tongariro River? You’ll experience the Tongariro from two very different angles. Both trips depart from our Turangi base, giving you maximum adventure time with minimal travelling.
E-bikes – an even easier way to travel!
Spend less energy pedalling and more energy enjoying your beautiful surroundings: rent one of our e-bikes for your Tongariro River Trail adventure. With an internally mounted battery and motor, these bikes make light work of ascents and headwinds. Come and try this latest craze for yourself.
Watch this video from Love Taupo below for more information:
For more info on mountain biking grades and hazards, click here