Where to Cycle in Rotorua

Cycling and BMX Tracks throughout Rotorua

An Informative Guide to the Rotorua BMX and Cycle Tracks

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Rotorua, famed for its geothermal attractions and rich Māori heritage, is also a cycling paradise, with trails that wind through lush forests, volcanic landscapes, and scenic lakeshores. Cyclists visiting Rotorua are spoilt for choice, as the region offers a range of trails for all experience levels, from gentle forest paths to intense downhill tracks. Here’s an in-depth guide to Rotorua’s most popular and unique cycle tracks, designed to help you make the most of this adventure-packed destination.

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Exploring Rotorua’s Premier Cycle Tracks


Whakarewarewa Forest (The Redwoods)

The Whakarewarewa Forest, or “The Redwoods,” is a must-visit for cyclists coming to Rotorua. Spanning over 5,600 hectares, this world-renowned forest is home to a network of over 180 kilometres of mountain biking trails, winding through towering redwood trees, native bush, and volcanic terrain.

Trail Highlights:

  • Forest Loop Trail: A 35-kilometre Grade 2 loop around the forest, ideal for beginner riders and families. This trail provides a gentle introduction to mountain biking in the Redwoods, featuring a mix of easy gradients and scenic views.

  • Intermediate Trails: For those ready for more excitement, tracks like “The Dipper” and “Mad If You Don’t” are perfect choices. Both Grade 3 trails, they offer flowing singletrack with manageable climbs and descents, making them popular with riders looking to hone their skills.

  • Advanced Trails: Seasoned riders can test their skills on Grade 4 and 5 tracks like “Tuhoto Ariki” and “Billy T,” which feature steep descents, technical sections, and challenging obstacles that demand precise handling and control.

Facilities and Tips: Whakarewarewa Forest is equipped with multiple facilities, including bike rental shops, a café, and bike wash stations. Shuttle services run to various trailheads, providing easy access to specific tracks and making it easier for riders to focus on downhill sections without the uphill grind. The forest is rideable year-round, but summer (December to February) offers the best conditions.


Skyline Rotorua Gravity Park

The Skyline Rotorua Gravity Park is the Southern Hemisphere’s first year-round gondola-assisted mountain bike park, making it a premier destination for downhill riders. Located on Mount Ngongotaha, the park offers a thrilling mix of trails catering to both beginners and advanced riders, all accessed via gondola.

Trail Highlights:

  • Beginner Trails: “Hipster” is a great introduction to downhill riding, with smooth berms, gentle gradients, and wide corners. This Grade 3 track is ideal for those new to the sport and looking to build confidence in a controlled environment.

  • Intermediate Trails: “Moss Piglet” provides a slightly steeper ride, offering a mix of jumps, drops, and natural features to challenge riders keen to progress their downhill skills.

  • Advanced Trails: “Ten Fifty One” is a Grade 5 trail packed with rocky sections, sharp turns, and high-speed drops, designed for experienced riders looking for a technical, adrenaline-pumping ride.

Facilities and Tips: The park offers gondola rides, bike rentals, a café, and a skills area for practising. Protective gear is highly recommended, as even the beginner trails involve downhill speeds. While the park operates year-round, it’s advisable to check for winter maintenance closures.


Te Ara Ahi – Thermal by Bike

For those looking to explore Rotorua’s geothermal wonders while cycling, Te Ara Ahi, or “The Thermal by Bike,” is an ideal choice. This 48-kilometre trail forms part of New Zealand’s national cycle trail network and showcases some of Rotorua’s most famous geothermal attractions.

Trail Highlights:

  • Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: Riders can dismount to explore this unique geothermal park, famous for its colourful Champagne Pool, erupting geysers, and hot springs.

  • Waimangu Volcanic Valley: Known as the world’s youngest geothermal system, this area includes steaming craters, hot lakes, and lush ferns, all easily accessible from the trail.

  • Cultural Experiences: Along the trail, riders will encounter sites of Māori cultural significance, with interpretive signs explaining the traditional importance of the geothermal landscape.

Difficulty Level: The trail is rated as Grade 2-3 and suitable for riders with moderate fitness. Some sections require road cycling, so it’s essential to be cautious and aware of traffic.

Facilities and Tips: Te Ara Ahi offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and physical challenge. Accommodation, cafés, and hot springs along the way make it ideal for a multi-day journey, allowing riders to explore the area at a leisurely pace. Spring and autumn offer the best conditions, as summer can be hot, especially around geothermal sites.


Rainbow Mountain Trails

Rainbow Mountain, or Maunga Kākaramea, is an area of natural beauty with red, orange, and yellow earth tones created by geothermal activity. The trails here are ideal for intermediate and advanced riders looking for a more challenging ride with rewarding views and a post-ride dip at Kerosene Creek.

Trail Highlights:

  • Te Ranga Trail: A Grade 4 trail that offers a thrilling descent from the summit. The track has technical features such as switchbacks, exposed roots, and rocky sections, demanding focus and skill from riders.

  • Kerosene Creek: After a tough ride, cyclists can unwind in the nearby Kerosene Creek hot springs, which flow naturally over rocks, creating a warm, relaxing pool.

Difficulty Level: The trails at Rainbow Mountain are rated Grade 3-4, and the terrain is best suited for riders who have experience with technical features. The climb to the summit is steep but manageable, and the descent rewards riders with impressive panoramas.

Facilities and Tips: Facilities are limited, so bring water, snacks, and a repair kit. Be mindful of track erosion after rain, as the trails can become slippery. Avoid peak times if you want a peaceful soak at Kerosene Creek.


Moerangi Track

For a remote, backcountry adventure, the Moerangi Track is a stunning 35-kilometre ride through Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park, one of New Zealand’s most ecologically significant forests. Known for towering podocarp trees and rich biodiversity, this trail offers a mix of natural beauty and challenging terrain.

Trail Highlights:

  • Whirinaki Forest: The forest is home to enormous rimu, tōtara, and kahikatea trees, creating a canopy unlike anywhere else in the country. Birdlife is abundant, and you might spot species like the whio (blue duck) and kākā.

  • Historic Huts: Along the way, the track passes the Moerangi and Rogers huts, which are relics from the region’s logging past. These huts provide a glimpse into local history and offer basic shelter for those wishing to break up the ride over multiple days.

Difficulty Level: Rated Grade 4, the Moerangi Track is for experienced riders due to its challenging climbs and remote location. Riders need good fitness levels and should be prepared for unpredictable weather.

Facilities and Tips: Bookings are required for hut accommodation, and riders should carry enough food, water, and safety gear, as the trail is remote with limited cell service. Late spring to early autumn offers the best conditions for this backcountry track.


Western Okataina Walkway

Connecting Lake Okataina and Lake Tarawera, the Western Okataina Walkway is a scenic trail for riders seeking a blend of lake views and lush forest. This route traverses varied terrain, including hills, native bush, and lakeshores, offering a peaceful escape from the city.

Trail Highlights:

  • Lake Okataina Scenic Reserve: The track winds through mature native bush, giving cyclists a glimpse of pristine New Zealand nature, including giant ferns and tōtara trees.

  • Lake Tarawera Views: The end of the trail offers breathtaking views of Lake Tarawera, with Mount Tarawera’s looming presence in the background.

Difficulty Level: This Grade 3 track is suitable for intermediate riders due to its hilly terrain and several narrow sections. The track is well-maintained but can become muddy after rain.

Facilities and Tips: The trail is not serviced by amenities, so bring water, snacks, and basic repair tools. Autumn and spring are ideal times to ride, as these seasons offer cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.


Conclusion

Rotorua is a cyclist’s dream, offering a variety of trails that showcase the area’s geothermal wonders, cultural sites, and dense forests. From the accessible trails in the Whakarewarewa Forest to the advanced downhills at Skyline Rotorua Gravity Park, the region caters to all skill levels, making it a fantastic destination for families, casual riders, and hardcore mountain bikers alike.

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in Māori culture, explore colourful geothermal landscapes, or simply enjoy the thrill of world-class biking trails, Rotorua has a cycling experience for every taste. So, pack your gear, choose your trail, and get ready to experience one of New Zealand’s most beautiful and bike-friendly regions in all its glory.