The Redwoods - Whakarewarewa Forest

For beginners and family groups the “Core” tracks are easily accessible from the main car park on Waipa State Mill Road which means very little road riding to enter the beginners’ tracks within the network.

Entry from the Redwoods means a bit more road riding to get to the beginners tracks but you will get great information from The Redwoods Gift Shop & Visitor Centre and can grab a map and refreshments or snacks while you are there!

Where ever you enter, when into the network the wide sweeping beginners’ tracks with gentle climbs and descents are fantastic fun. With the mix of track grades in this area it is easy to move onto more challenging tracks as your confidence and ability increases.

You can start in the “Core” network and ride a great variety of intermediate level tracks. Awesome if you want a really good ride but don’t have too much time.

Or if you are quite fit and love exploring you can head further out into the forest and try some of the “Outback” tracks. But remember to be prepared as it is a bit more of a hike back if you get a flatty!

For more experienced riders the tracks are almost endless! Cross country or downhill, Rotorua’s impressive mountain biking options mean enthusiasts can easily fill an hour, a day or an entire weekend in ‘mountain biking heaven’ while in Rotorua.

If you have limited time there are a few really challenging tracks within the “Core” network and you can enjoy the easier tracks at speed. Heading “outback” is probably for you though. The map suggests riding loops for the “Outback” tracks. Much of this riding requires at least a couple of hours and some good sound technical skills and fitness. A track map is a must to make the most of riding in this area. You’ll need a map anyway to plan your next ride as coming once will just not be enough!

Riding is FREE; double sided, waterproof, tearproof, A2 maps are available for $5 and all profits go towards maintaining the forest tracks and facilities. If you would like to arrange purchasing a map please click here.

To view a track map and list of all the mountain bike tracks click here.

If you would like to hire bikes there are loads of options in Rotorua. Most of the shops provide servicing and have great local knowledge as well.
Plus you can take a guided tour or learn how to ride your bike really well with a skills clinic.

If you do use any of the businesses below please let us know about the service you receive so we can recommend the best providers.
To do this click here.

The Rotorua Mountain Bike Club is proud to be involved with development and maintenance of much of the network tracks. To become involved or for more information click here.

For general information about biking in Rotorua and some interesting news and discussion check out the RideRotorua website by clicking here.