Mountain Biking Trails In New Zealand | 17 Epic Routes For 2025
New Zealand's mountain bike trails are pure fun and they have amazing scenery, there's a trail just right for you. Here's how to pick the perfect path and skip the busy spots.
Author:Maya ReyesReviewer:Sophia HarperSep 11, 202574.5K Shares1.5M Views
New Zealand's mountain bike trails take you through amazing places. It's still one of the best places in the world to ride in 2025.
Each trail gives something different like new ground to cover, great views and rides that suit everyone. These trips stick with you, take your time to plan your New Zealand biking adventure today.
1. Whakarewarewa Forest
Whakarewarewa Forest also called Rotorua's Redwoods Forest is a top spot for mountain biking. You'll find 180km of trails here, perfect for everyone. Beginners love the Dipper loop, while Corners throws sharp turns at experienced riders.
Tall redwood trees shade the paths, and the volcanic ground gives good grip. The trails are clear, well-kept and easy to follow. You can rent bikes nearby if you need one. After your ride, relax in Rotorua's natural hot springs, it’s the perfect way to relax.
Spring months (September to November) are the best time to visit, but you can ride all year. Stay a few days to try more trails.
2. Queenstown Bike Park
Queenstown Bike Park gets you up the mountain fast with a gondola. Once at the top, enjoy 30km of downhill trails through Ben Lomond Reserve. Trails like Beached As have plenty of jumps, and Squid Run challenges intermediate and advanced riders.
The views over Lake Wakatipu make the ride even better. Local shops have great bikes to rent for any skill level. Summer brings lots of people, so book your bike ahead.
Check the trail status online before you go to avoid surprises. You can easily spend a half or full day riding here. After your adventure, try other Queenstown activities like bungee jumping.
3. Old Ghost Road
This tough 85km ride runs along the South Island’s wild West Coast. You’ll follow an old gold miners’ path through rough valleys. Spooky old towns and river sights make it special. Most riders take 2 to 4 days, staying in basic huts overnight. Since it’s so remote, you’ll need to be fit and ready.
Be prepared for steep climbs and rocky downhill sections. The easiest start is near Westport, just a 45-minute drive. Book huts early, especially in summer. Bring bike repair stuff since help won’t be close. Don’t ride closed trails to keep wildlife safe.
4. Queen Charlotte Track
Hit the Queen Charlotte Track for 70km of pure South Island magic. This coastal ride blends easy stretches with heart-pumping climbs, all wrapped in jaw-dropping bay views.
Most riders take 1-3 days, starting at Ship Cove and finishing at Anakiwa. Fancy mixing it up? Add kayaking to your adventure. Weather’s gentle most of the year, but November through May brings the clearest skies. You’ll find cozy stays or campsites along the route, just double-check trail access before heading out.
If you need wheels, grab a bike rental in Picton. And while you’re planning, you might wonder what the color that represents Mayis, here, it’s the deep green of coastal forests meeting the ocean’s blue.
5. Great Lake Trail
This 70km ride loops around Lake Taupō on the North Island. You'll cycle past forests, wetlands, and views of volcanic peaks. Good riders enjoy the smooth sections between Waihaha and Whakaipo Bay, with the mountains as a stunning backdrop.
Ride it in spring for the best colours. Grab a bike and map in Taupō town. Add a trip to the hot springs nearby. You can do it in a day or stay overnight. Always check the forecast before you go.
6. Rude Rock Track
This short 7km track near Queenstown is tough. It's all steep drops and tight turns over rocks, meant for experienced riders. You'll earn amazing views of Queenstown if you tackle it. Ride up on the Coronet Peak lift for more runs, then try Hot Rod for faster, smoother sections.
You need sharp skills and confidence here. Summer's best, but watch for snow in winter. Local guides can help beginners. Wear full protection. Book your lift spot early in busy times.
7. Timber Trail
Cycle 85km through Pureora Forest on the North Island. Giant old trees, wobbly suspension bridges, and old logging sites make this special. Split it into three parts for one or two days. Experienced riders handle the mix of track types well.
Stay at huts or campsites along the way. Start from Pureora , it's straightforward. Spring and autumn have the nicest weather. Rent a solid bike in Taupō. Be mindful of others on the trail.
8. St James Cycle Trail
This 64km trail near Hanmer Springs takes you through big mountains, high country fields, and clean rivers. It’s tough going for experienced riders with some steep climbs. Best to ride it in summer when the paths are clear. After your ride, relax in Hanmer’s hot pools.
Since it’s remote, be ready. Drive from Hanmer Springs to start. Bring water, bike tools, and check if trails are open before you go. Local companies can drive you back to your car.
9. Cardrona Bike Park
Find 21 trails for all riders at Cardrona Bike Park near Wanaka. You take the lift up, then choose easy green runs or hard black ones. You’ll see amazing views over Cardrona Valley. You should try the 10km Peak-to-Pub ride, it’s great for steady riders. It’s good for families too.
Go in summer for the best time. Rent bikes there if you need one. Get your lift tickets early and watch the weather. After riding, hike Roy’s Peak in Wanakafor more fun. You’ll see clear signs on the trails, but stay focused.
10. Wairoa Gorge Bike Park
This Nelson park has 70km of trails you reach by shuttle. It's best for riders with some experience, offering steep, technical downhill runs. Nelson's weather means you can ride here all year. Don't miss the Codgers-Deliverance Trailfor great views and a solid climb. Shuttles make getting up the hill easy.
Bring your bike or hire one nearby. Spring is lovely with fresh greenery and comfortable temperatures. Always check trail status before you go, some close for nature protection. After your ride, check out Nelson's art galleries. Book your shuttle ahead to avoid waiting.
11. Mākara Peak Mountain Bike Park
Wellington's top spot for mountain biking, Mākara Peak has trails for all levels. Try the famous Deliverance trail if you're up for a challenge, it winds through mossy rocks and roots. If you prefer something easier, there are a lot of smoother cross-country style paths too.
Related Reading: Hiking Trails In The Rocky Mountains
12. Middle Hill MTB
Find this bike park on a working sheep farm in Waipapa Bay. It's 90 minutes south of Picton Ferry or 40 minutes north of Kaikoura.
You'll ride purpose-built trails graded from easy to tough (levels 2-6). A shuttle takes you up so you can focus on the downhill fun. You can ride here most months, except the coldest winter weeks best from September to May.
Only 24 riders are allowed each day. You can bring your friends, you'll have the place mostly to yourselves to ride as much as you like.
13. Dome Valley DH
Near Warkworth, Auckland, this bike park is for riders who aren't beginners. You'll need a shuttle to get up. The main downhill track gives you a fast 18-minute ride on dusty, loose ground , it's tough and best for confident riders.
The park only runs on shuttle days, so you must book with Auckland Downhill first. Friendly riders hang out here and often share tips. See the map and watch Wyn Masters tackle the steep, rough track through the woods and over tricky jumps and rocky sections.
14. Christchurch Adventure Park
Right by Christchurch, this park has trails for every skill level, from easy to very hard. A chairlift takes you up, so you can ride all year. You can even surf, ski and mountain bike all in one day here! With 44 trails, it's got plenty to keep you busy. See the map.
15. The West Coast Wilderness Trail
People tell crazy stories about this coast, it has rough beaches, tough adventures, secret treasures. But locals will say, "You haven't heard half of it."
Now's your chance to see one of the last wild spots and share your own stories. This is one of the country's easiest and most enjoyable bike trails.
Grab your bike. Ride through old rainforests, past icy rivers, beside quiet lakes, and across wetlands. You can ride the full 133km trail over four days, or just pick a single day trip. Either way, it's a truly amazing ride from the mountains down to the ocean.
16. Craigieburn
Craigieburn is a secret spot many Kiwis love, even if Queenstown and Rotorua grab the headlines. Ask Queenstown locals where they really like to ride, and plenty will pick Craigieburn or Nelson.
It’s about two hours from Christchurch, right in the South Island’s heart. You’ll find some of New Zealand’s best native beech forest riding here. If you’ve never ridden in beech forest, get ready for super soft, loamy dirt. The roots create natural jumps and get tricky when wet.
The must-do run starts on the famous Edge track, a steep walk across loose rock then drops straight into Luge. Luge might be New Zealand’s finest trail ride. But remember, Craigieburn is remote. Pack spare parts, a first aid kit, and have an emergency plan. Summer’s your best bet because of the high altitude.
17. Central Otago
Just an hour from Queenstown, Alexandra (often called Alex) is a fantastic spot for mountain biking in New Zealand. Locals are quick to tell you how special it is. While the riding feels different from most places, some trails like Hazard County have rocky sections that remind me of trails near Sydney.
One thing you'll notice is the smell of wild thyme along the trails, it makes every ride really nice. If you prefer longer, more relaxed rides, Alexandra is the perfect base for Central Otago's famous trails: the Otago Central Rail Trail, the Roxburgh Gorge Trail, and the Clutha Gold Trail.
You'll find a mix of smooth, fast tracks and rougher, rocky sections. First-timers should watch for pink dots painted on rocks , they show the safe path, especially where a sharp turn keeps you from riding off a big ledge.
FAQs About Mountain Biking Trails In New Zealand
Where Should New Riders Start?
Look for flat, easy paths like Whakarewarewa’s Dipper or Cardrona’s green trails. They’re not too steep and well-marked.
When’s The Nicest Time To Ride?
Spring and summer bring nice weather and dry trails.
Can I Rent A Bike Nearby?
Most places like Queenstown or Taupō have shops close by. You’ll find regular bikes, e-bikes and even fancy ones.
How Do I Get Ready For Long Trails Like Old Ghost Road?
Plan 2–4 days, book huts ahead and pack bike tools. Check the weather and trail status. Bring extra food and water since some parts are remote.
Can I Mix Biking With Other Fun Stuff?
Try Queen Charlotte with kayaking or Rotorua’s trails after a hot spring soak. Queenstown pairs biking with hiking or bungee jumps.
Is It Safe To Ride Alone?
Most trails are super safe if you’re ready. Bring a map, wear a helmet and pick busy spots like Whakarewarewa where other riders are around.
Final Thoughts
New Zealand's mountain bike trails are seriously good, with something for everyone. You get to see the green forests near Rotorua to the tricky downhill that runs around Nelson. Grab a map, don't mess with the environment and get out there, you'll remember these rides forever.
Also Check Out: The Beauty Of Cities That Speak Their Own Language
Jump to
1. Whakarewarewa Forest
2. Queenstown Bike Park
3. Old Ghost Road
4. Queen Charlotte Track
5. Great Lake Trail
6. Rude Rock Track
7. Timber Trail
8. St James Cycle Trail
9. Cardrona Bike Park
10. Wairoa Gorge Bike Park
11. Mākara Peak Mountain Bike Park
12. Middle Hill MTB
13. Dome Valley DH
14. Christchurch Adventure Park
15. The West Coast Wilderness Trail
16. Craigieburn
17. Central Otago
FAQs About Mountain Biking Trails In New Zealand
Final Thoughts
Maya Reyes
Author
Maya Reyes’s wanderlust was sparked in the temples of Luang Prabang, where the scent of lemongrass and the chants of monks revealed the transformative power of travel.
Since then, her journey has been defined by cultural immersion and authentic connections. From learning batik in Indonesia to sharing meals with nomadic families in Mongolia, Maya seeks experiences that highlight the human stories behind each destination.
Travel for her is a way to weave her narrative into the world’s cultural tapestry, creating bridges across diverse ways of life. Maya has traveled to 15 countries and shares her insights through writing and storytelling.
Sophia Harper
Reviewer
Sophia Harper’s photography acts as a portal to the soul of the places she visits. Drawn to South America’s landscapes and cultures, she has spent years capturing everything from the majesty of ancient ruins to the vibrancy of urban streets.
Sophia’s work isn’t just about documenting moments; it’s about evoking the emotions and stories behind them. A dedicated photographer, she has worked with local communities across South America to capture their rich cultural narratives through her lens.
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