Last updated July 2026
Skyline Gravity Park is New Zealand’s first all-season gondola-assisted downhill mountain bike park, located on the slopes of Mt Ngongotahā on the western shore of Lake Rotorua. Riders access the summit via the Skyline Rotorua gondola for uplift, then descend 12 kilometres of trails back to the base. The park offers trails graded from 3 to 6 and forms part of Rotorua’s broader mountain biking network, which holds IMBA gold-level Ride Centre status.
Practical Information
| Location | 185 Fairy Springs Road, Rotorua, at the base of the Skyline Rotorua gondola |
| Trail network | 12 km of downhill trails across 12 runs |
| Vertical drop | 200 metres |
| Trail grades | Grade 3–6 (intermediate to expert) |
| Gondola | Dedicated cabins carrying up to 4 riders and bikes; approximately 7–8 minutes to summit |
| Uplift passes | Single to multi-uplift options; book via Skyline Rotorua website |
| Bike hire | Full-suspension bikes only via Mountain Bike Rotorua (pre-booking recommended) |
| Facilities | Café and restaurant, lockers, toilets at gondola base and summit |
| Operating season | Year-round, subject to weather and maintenance |
About Skyline Gravity Park
The gondola provides efficient uplift to the summit at 532 metres elevation, delivering a 200-metre vertical rise above Lake Rotorua. Purpose-built cabins accommodate bikes and riders comfortably for the ascent, offering panoramic views across the lake and toward the Whakarewarewa Forest. From the top, riders choose from multiple descending lines that return to the base facility.
Trails cater to intermediate through expert riders. Approximately 33 percent are Grade 3, with the remainder Grade 4, 5, and 6. Grade 5 and 6 lines feature steep technical sections, jumps, and competition-standard terrain used during events. Full-suspension mountain bikes are required; hardtails are unsuitable for the descending focus of the park.
Rotorua’s overall trail network, including the Skyline Gravity Park and the extensive cross-country trails in Whakarewarewa Forest, earned IMBA gold-level Ride Centre recognition. This status highlights the quality and destination appeal of the area’s mountain biking infrastructure.
Trail Grades and Experience
The park’s terrain mix includes flowy intermediate lines and advanced technical descents. Riders new to gondola parks or downhill trails should begin on Grade 3 options to assess conditions and ability before progressing. The longest single run measures 1.8 kilometres. Note that mountain biking operations at Skyline Rotorua are scheduled to conclude after Crankworx 2027 as the site transitions to new visitor experiences.
Crankworx Rotorua
Skyline Gravity Park hosts events during the annual Crankworx Rotorua festival, part of the global Crankworx mountain bike series. The park features custom-built courses for disciplines such as Dual Speed and Style, Slopestyle, and pump tracks, attracting professional riders and spectators each year.
Bike Hire and Access
Bike hire is managed through Mountain Bike Rotorua, with only full-suspension models available to meet park requirements. Pre-booking is strongly advised. Riders bringing their own bikes must use appropriate full-suspension trail or enduro bikes suited to Grade 3 and above terrain. Uplift passes are purchased directly through the Skyline Rotorua website.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the convenient gondola uplift and the variety of flowy to technical trails that suit a range of abilities once riders reach the summit. Many highlight the scenic views over Lake Rotorua during both the ascent and descents.
Riders frequently note the high-quality trail building and the park’s role in Rotorua’s reputation as a premier mountain biking destination, especially during festival periods when competition lines are active.
Where to Learn More
Skyline Rotorua Mountain Bike Park: official page with trail details, grades, and booking information.
Skyline Rotorua MTB Pricing: current uplift pass options and packages.
New Zealand Tourism – Skyline Gravity Park: overview within Rotorua’s mountain biking context.
Frequently Asked Questions
What skill level is required for Skyline Gravity Park?
Intermediate skills on a full-suspension mountain bike for Grade 3 trails at minimum. Beginners should use the Whakarewarewa Forest cross-country network instead.
Can I hire a bike at the park?
Yes, through Mountain Bike Rotorua. Only full-suspension bikes are available and pre-booking is recommended.
How does the gondola uplift work?
Dedicated cabins carry up to four riders and bikes. Purchase uplift passes for the desired number of rides; the ascent takes around 7–8 minutes.
What are the trail grades?
Grade 3 to 6. Roughly 33 percent Grade 3, with the balance Grade 4–6 including competition-standard lines.
Is the park open year-round?
Yes, as an all-season facility, though operations may be affected by weather or maintenance. Check the official site for updates.
What is Crankworx Rotorua?
An annual international mountain bike festival with events hosted at the park, including races and demonstrations on its trails.
Will the mountain bike park continue operating?
Mountain biking at Skyline Rotorua is scheduled to conclude after Crankworx 2027 as the site transitions to new experiences.
Where is the park located?
At 185 Fairy Springs Road, Rotorua, at the base of the Skyline gondola on Mt Ngongotahā.
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