Cycling and Mountain Biking in Ruapehu

Fishers Track *

The Fishers Track is a 95% DOWNHILL..!! SPECTACULAR SCENERY!! A short, easy climb leaves you with breathtaking views of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Ngauruhoe, Mt Tongariro and out over the Retaruke Valley and beyond.

The track winds through spectacular native bush before descending down through farmland. Overall the track is 17km long and includes a 520m descent.

This track requires minimal fitness levels as long as you arrange a pick up at the end, suited to anyone who can ride a bike.

NB: One way track, pick up service recommended.

Old Coach Road **

The Old Coach Road gives a unique historic glimpse into New Zealand’s past, taking you through beautiful stands of forest with sweeping views of the surrounding county side.

The trail is approximately 15 km long so is an achievable return ride for a day or an interesting half day one way trip.

Heritage features on the trail include massive steel viaducts, a curved tunnel, railway bridge remains, old camp sites, and a cobbled road built in 1906.

No other road of this age, length and surface exists in New Zealand. The Department of Conservation has erected displays along the way to keep you well informed.

NB: One way track, cycle to the end and back or pick up/drop off service advised.  Track is not exclusively for cycling – share with care.

42 Traverse ***

This is one of the premier rides in the North Island. Renowned for the long and often rutted down-hills, the track will test even the most ardent biker. Also known as the Tongariro Forest Crossing, taking 46km (4-7 hours) on old logging tracks through remote native bush, the track surface varies from gravel to mud, some stream crossings, and there are inevitable up-hills.  The scenery is outstanding including wide vistas of all three volcanoes to lush unspoiled New Zealand bush.

NB: Full day one way Track, pick up/drop off arrangement essential.  Track is not exclusively for cycling – share with care.

Erua Conservation Area (1-4 hours)**

3km from Horopito on Middle Rd, a mix of 4WD & single tracks. A good area for exploration.

John MacDonald Loop, Tongariro Forest (Grade 5+, 4-7 hours, 40km) *****

For the experienced riders who like a challenge, this is perhaps the best ride in Tongariro Forest. It’s only a 40km loop, but it takes 4-7hours and excellent navigation skills. You will encounter every type of riding imaginable on this beauty.

Mangapurua Trig (Grade 3, 3-5 hours, 22km return) ***

30 km North-West of Raetihi. Follow the Mangapurua Track across farmland, into the bush and almost all the way up to Mangapurua Trig. Near the top, a 5-minute walk is signposted to the trig, which has fantastic views of the Volcanic Plateau and Mt Taranaki.