Biking in Wanaka

BIKING IN WANAKA

Wanaka is a paradise which has it all - majestic mountains, pristine rivers and lakes, glaciers, beautiful forests and luminous green sheep pastures. Every year our pretty little town welcomes New Zealanders and tourists from all around the globe to explore an area that belongs to one of the main hot spots for outdoor adventures in the Southern Alps.

Wanaka offers a cosy basecamp for all the activities that make you sweat hard and keep you awed by the outsanding scenery everywhere you look. Whether you are a casual adventurer, a family with kids or a professional athlete, Wanaka provides endless options to keep you happy and busy during your whole stay.

If you love exploring on two wheels, Wanaka is the perfect base. With over 750kms of mountain bike tracks to choose from, there is something for everyone including plenty of family-friendly off-road trails by the lakes, rivers or through the forest.

No matter if you are looking for an easy, cruisey ride or some gnarly downhill tracks, Wanaka has got it all! There is no need to drive anywhere - we are lucky to have great riding of different types accessible directly from town. Just get on a bike and enjoy the views of the crystal clear lake surrounded by breath-taking mountain scenery.

TIP: If you are coming from overseas or simply didn´t pack your bikes with you - don´t worry! We´ve got  bike hire available directly in Wanaka Top 10! There is no need to loose your precious time roaming around town looking for rentals. You only need to stop by the reception and our lovely staff will be happy to help you get a mountain bike that suits you or your child most. For the little ones we´ve got child seats and tag-along available too.

POPULAR BIKING TRACKS IN WANAKA

Here are some tips to help you decide where to go and what to expect.

OUTLET TRACK

Grade: Easy

Start: Outlet Motor Camp

Distance: 3 km (one way)

Time: 30 minutes (one way)

Spectacular scenery makes this popular for both walkers and bikers. The track follows the Clutha River, start or finish at the Lake Wanaka Outlet or Hikuwai Conservation Area in Albert Town. Bikers should ride carefully and give way to walkers. The Hikuwai mountain bike loop above the main river track gives a more challenging ride. Starting from our holiday park will make it a nice 10 km (one way) bike track following the lake shore from the Wanaka Tree through to Eely & Beacon Point all the way to Albert Town. 

UPPER CLUTHA RIVER TRACK

Grade: Intermediate

Start: Albert Town Bridge

Distance: 18 km (one way)

Time: 2-3 hours (one way)

This track, from Lake Wanaka Outlet to Luggate, follows along the river bank offering views of the Clutha’s emerald-green water which is famous for trout fishing and popular with walkers. Cyclists will enjoy shade in summer and shelter from the elements in winter. A loop option is possible when combined with the Newcastle Track, located on the true left of the river. This track is a suitable cycling trail for the whole family.

HAWEA RIVER TRACK

Grade: Easy

Start: Albert Town Recreational Reserve

Distance: 11 km (one way)

Time: 1 - 2 hours (one way)

The Hawea River Track follows an easy gradient over river terraces and through kanuka groves as it links Lake Hawea township to Wanaka, via Albert Town. Near its midway point, the track crosses Camp Hill Road. This family friendly walking & biking track is suitable for all ages and ability levels of bikers.

MILLENIUM TRACK

Grade: Intermediate

Start: Ruby Island Road Car Park

Distance: 15 km (one way)

Time: 1-2 hours (one way)

From Waterfall Creek, the track follows undulating terraces above Lake Wanaka with a few steep sections in the first part of the track that you may need to walk. It offers spectacular views in all directions and passes a small north-facing beach - Damper Bay - ideal for swimming in the summer. From Damper Bay the track becomes easier until you finally reach Glendhu Bay. Don't forget to soak up the spectacular views of Mount Aspiring from Glendhu Bay view point!

*Ask at reception for the water taxi drop off options to enjoy this track one-way

MINARET BURN

Grade: Intermediate

Start: West Wanaka Road

Distance: 7 km (one way)

Time:  1 - 2 hours (one way)

This well-formed track provides easy access to beautiful beaches along Wanaka's western shore. From Homestead Bay carpark the track gently undulates towards small, sheltered Colquhouns Beach; a popular swimming and picnic spot. This track passes through native forest and bush, crossing streams and offering direct access to Lake Wanaka.

*Ask at reception for the water taxi drop off options to enjoy this track

STICKY FOREST

Grade: Easy to Advanced

Distance & Time: Variable

Sticky Forest is a fun network of tracks from beginner to advanced, situated in the pine forest in Wanaka township. There are over 20 tracks to choose from which have been designed for all biking skill levels. It is ideal option for those who are looking for something fun and challenging. With heaps of tracks and plenty of Gap Jumps and Table Tops, you will never get bored.

CARDRONA BIKE PARK

When Cardrona shut their doors for the winter they open them up again for the summer. The Cardrona Bike Park features a variety of lift accessed downhill and cross country mountain bike trails for all ability levels. There is plenty to explore not only for hardcore downhill bike riders, but also for recreational riders and cycling families. With numerous tracks all accessed by chairlifts, this has to be one of the most fun days out you will have on a bike. For your convience we can manage your booking for Cardrona Bike Park directly in our holiday park.

For a complete overview of Wanaka mountain biking tracks download free app available online.

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.wanakatourism.wanaktrails

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/nz/app/wanaka-tracks-app/id1324924620

Yes, Wanaka region has some of the best mountain biking in the country and it is all on your doorstep!

 Please remember the off-road code, wear a helmet, respect other users, give way to walkers and most importantly have a blast!
 

Posted by Andrea Kendrick on May 02, 2020