Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Activities
Tramping & Cycling
Obtain trail maps and hire bikes from
Pack & Pedal
07-377 4346;
MAP
07-378
MAP
7381;
craig@cornershop.co.nz
; cnr Horomatangi & Ruapehu Sts; half/full day $35/50)
.
Great Lake Walkway
This pleasant path follows the Taupo lakefront south to Five Mile Bay (10km). It's flat,
easy walking or cycling along public-access beaches.
WALKING, CYCLING
TRAMPING, CYCLING
Great Lake Trail
(
www.greatlaketrail.com
)
A purpose-built 71km track from Whakaipo Bay to Waihaha in the re-
mote northwestern reaches of the lake. The
W2K
section between Whakaipo and Kinloch
has splendid views across the lake to Tongariro National Park. If you are looking for more
challenging off-road riding, look up
Craters of the Moon MTB Park
Craters Rd)
.
Huka Falls Walkway
Starting from the Spa Park car park at the end of County Ave (off Spa Rd), this scenic,
easy walk takes just over an hour to reach the falls, following the east bank of the Waikato
River. Continuing on from the falls is the 7km
Huka Falls to Aratiatia Rapids Walking Track
(an-
other two-plus hours). The Taupo-Huka Falls-Aratiatia loop bike ride will take around
four hours in total.
WALKING, CYCLING
Hot Springs
Combine a soak in the hot pools with a walk around a fascinating thermal area at Wairakei
Terraces (
Click here
)
.
Spa Park Hot Spring
MAP
HOT POOLS
(Spa Park)
The hot thermal waters of the Otumuheke Stream meet the bracing
Waikato River at this pleasant and well-worn spot under a bridge, creating a free natural
spa bath. Take care: people have been known to drown while trying to cool off in the fast-
