Best Biking Trails in Waikato – Ride Beside Rivers and Rails

The Waikato region is a dream for cyclists, whether you’re after a short scenic ride or a multi-day adventure. With riverside paths, old railway lines and trails weaving through farmland and bush, there’s something for every level of rider.

There are so many biking trails still left to discover but the ones we’ve already explored we’ve really enjoyed. They show off the Waikato’s landscapes in a way that walking or driving never could — from powerful rivers to historic gorges and peaceful wetlands.

Here are some of the best biking trails in Waikato, with a mix of river rides, geothermal scenery and historic rail adventures.

Tongariro River Trail – Tūrangi

A trail we ride often to keep the wheels turning when we’re parked up at home during winter, and to enjoy the peacefulness it offers. It’s a pretty easy ride, scenic in places and always a favourite for stretching the legs on two wheels.

The trail follows the Tongariro River, famous for trout fishing and beautiful bush scenery. It loops around the riverbanks with swing bridges and lookout spots that invite you to pause and take it all in. It’s a gentle, family-friendly ride that still manages to feel like a real adventure.

Highlights:

• Distance: 15 km loop (1.5–2 hours)
• Scenery: Riverside views, native bush, trout pools
• Why ride: A peaceful loop track that’s perfect for all riders from beginners to regulars

Huka Falls to Aratiatia Dam – Taupō

It’s a good track, with a few challenging turns but nothing too strenuous. A longer ride but one that stays scenic most of the way as you follow the mighty Waikato River. The Aratiatia Dam is unreal if you strike it at one of the scheduled water releases — a powerful sight and sound that never disappoints. It’s also a great place to stop for a picnic before heading back.

This ride links two of Taupō’s most famous natural features. You start at the thundering Huka Falls, ride through bush and farmland along the river trail and finish at the Aratiatia Dam, where the floodgates open daily to release a dramatic surge of water into the gorge.

Highlights:

• Distance: 7 km one way (allow 1–2 hours return)
• Scenery: Raging falls, Waikato River, farmland and bushland
• Why ride: Combines one of New Zealand’s most iconic waterfalls with the spectacle of the Aratiatia Dam release

Waikato River Trails – Arapuni to Little Waipa & Whakamaru to Atiamuri

The Waikato River Trails cover 100 km of track alongside the river, with a mix of grades and scenery. The ride feels long but very easy and there are plenty of spots to stop and enjoy along the way. One highlight on the Whakamaru track, is the fort halfway, which you can climb for a view — just be sure to bring a lock for your bike so it’s safe while you explore. Some parts run close to the road edge, but they’re well-marked and feel safe to ride. With great picnic stops scattered along the trail, it’s a relaxed way to enjoy the Waikato landscape. Two sections really stood out for us:

• Arapuni to Little Waipa: Gentle riding past farmland and over the impressive Arapuni Swing Bridge.
• Whakamaru to Atiamuri: Bush-clad trails with lake views and suspension bridges.

Highlights:

• Distance: Sections vary from 10–20 km each
• Scenery: Hydro lakes, bush and farmland
• Why ride: Well-marked sections, great mix of easy and intermediate riding with camping spots nearby

Hauraki Rail Trail – Paeroa to Waihi & Kaiaua to Thames

We rode most of this trail, and while some sections can feel a little flat, long, and close to farmland, other stretches are very scenic and all are nice and flat to ride. The Hauraki Rail Trail is one of New Zealand’s best-known cycle routes, built on disused railway lines and perfect for riders of all levels. While there are multiple sections, two favourites stand out:

• Paeroa to Waihi: A classic ride through the Karangahake Gorge, with tunnels, gold-mining history and river views.
• Kaiaua to Thames: A coastal section along the Firth of Thames, passing wetlands teeming with birdlife.

Highlights:

• Distance: Sections vary, 20–25 km each
• Scenery: Historic rail tunnels, rivers, wetlands and coastal views
• Why ride: Easy gradients, family-friendly, rich history and scenery

Final Thoughts

From the river trails to the rail trails, Waikato offers some of the most accessible and rewarding biking in Aotearoa. The tracks are well signposted, cater to different grades, and often have camping spots or small towns nearby for easy overnight stays. Whether you’re riding for a day or planning a multi-day trip, these trails will keep you pedalling through some of the best scenery the region has to offer.

👉 Safety First: Always check trail conditions, carry water and snacks, and wear proper gear. The trails can vary in grade, and weather in the Waikato can change quickly, so be prepared.

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