Quick Start Track 3: Waikato River Trail
Last updated:
July 2009
• Waipapa Dam to Lake Karapiro
• Whakamaru to Mangakino
Quick Start Track 3: Waikato River Trail
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The total Waikato River Trail will be 100 kilometres long and follow the Waikato River and five hydro-lakes from Atiamuri to Horahora. Thirty kilometres of trails are already open for use, 23 kilometres are built but yet to be opened, 6 kilometres are under construction and a further 41 kilometres are planned.
The remaining 41 kilometres are sections from a) Waipapa Dam to Lake Karapiro and b) Whakamaru to Mangakino (refer to the highlighted sections of the above map or PDF). These sections are rich in geological and cultural history. Prominent rock formations feature the ancient history of Taupo and Mangakino vulcanology.
Family off-road cycling is the target market with a mountain-biking grade of 2-3 (moderate). The route is connected at both ends to State Highway 1. Thirty five kilometres is adjacent to State Highway 30 between Rotorua and Waitomo, with Arapuni also on the northern Rotorua –Waitomo link.
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