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Start: Turoa Ski Field, MT RUAPEHU
Start time: 8am @ The Mountain Bike Station
Finish: Upokongaro
Finish time: Approx 6pm (Ohakune)
Distance: 210 km (includes jet boat ride)
Canoe: 8km – self guided – Grade 2 (Optional)
Duration: 3 days – 2 nights
Riding distances per day: 38- 74km
Minimum group size: 2
Maximum group size: 12
Fitness level: Moderate to high level of fitness required
Grade: 2-3
Riding Season: November – April
Support Level by the Mountain Bike Station
Descending 1000m in just 17km, the Ohakune Mountain Road is a fantastic downhill stretch with stunning views over the Ruapehu district and out over the Whanganui National Park. The road begins at Turoa car park, 1620m above sea level, and winds down amidst the barren volcanic fields, past the sites of previous lahars and finally into the lush forest of the lower slopes.
Step back in time and explore some of New Zealand’s oldest railway history. You are transported out to Horopito from where you will cycle the 15km stretch of the historic Ohakune Old Coach Road between what were formerly the railheads of the main trunk railway line before the line was completed in 1909. It offers a fantastic ride through some spectacular scenery, and link trails to Hapuawhenua and Taonui viaducts, with interactive signboards along the trail giving you insight into era and hardships of the times.
The road from Horopito to Ruatiti Valley is a journey through the heartland of the North Island. After the initial 15km descent from Middle Road near Horopito to Ruatiti Domain into the valley below, the road meanders through some of the most remote farmland in New Zealand (the track is partly gravel, partly sealed road). This is a real chance to experience a true New Zealand farming community with rolling countryside giving way to splendid views of Mount Ruapehu.
This, coupled with the serenity of the Manganui O Te Ao River, makes it a pleasant day’s cycle that ends deep in the Ruatiti Valley
Ruatiti Hunting Lodge
Photo Supplied by: Bennett & Slater
Through the forest, over the rolling hills, along the sheer bluff face and across the majestic river, the Mangapurua / Bridge to Nowhere trail offers a fascinating glimpse into post-war life in the central North Island.
Quickly gaining a reputation as one of New Zealand’s best day rides, the variety it offers makes it a great experience for riders of all levels.
Stand on the bridge and take in the same views that the pioneers did, then trade the steam boats for a high powered jet vessel for your journey to your nights accommodation.
If you would like to enjoy the Whanganui River a little longer, you can take a self guided canoe trip (optional). From the Mangapurua Landing you will be jet boated to Ngaporo campsite from where you will canoe approx. two hours downstream to the Bridge to Nowhere Lodge.
Bridge to Nowhere Lodge
From Pipiriki it’s back in the saddle for a meandering cycle through the stunning canyons, thick forest and rolling farmland that border the Whanganui River as the trail winds down the Whanganui River Road. Discover natural and cultural riches of Maori and early European settlers. Engage with locals, absorb the serenity and history as you cycle alongside the Whanganui River, and over ‘Gentle Annie’ to Upokongaro (sealed road).
We will meet you in Upokongaro and transport you back to Ohakune.
Mountain Bike Station is based at:
Raetihi Holiday Park
10 Parapara Road,
Raetihi
NEW ZEALAND
