Wānaka doesn’t need much selling. Sit at the edge of the lake on a clear morning, look up at the mountains, and it’s pretty obvious why people keep coming back — and why a lot of them (including us!) eventually stop leaving.
But beyond the views and the good coffee, Wānaka has quietly built a reputation as one of the best places in New Zealand to go biking. The trails are varied enough to keep you busy for a week, the town is compact and easy to navigate, and the riding — whether you’re on a mountain bike threading through pine forest or grinding up to Meg Hut — is genuinely world-class.
If this sounds like cycling magic to you, this Biking in Wānaka Ultimate Guide has you and your wheels covered. We’ve cherry-picked the best routes for different ability levels, sourced the places to hire a bike if you’re not travelling with your own, and included practical tips for making the most of your time on the trails, and advice on finding the right place to stay. A holiday home with a garage and a washing machine will serve you a lot better than a hotel room when you’re coming back muddy every afternoon.
Whether you’re planning a quick long weekend or a full week in the saddle, here’s how to do Wānaka on two wheels.
Why Bike in Wānaka?
But first the why. We can think of three compelling reasons to ride off on your bike in this part of the world.
- Top of the list is scenery. Wānaka offers a breathtaking backdrop for cycling, with stunning landscapes that take you alongside the shimmering lake, through lush forests, and up exhilarating mountain trails.
- Then, there’s the weather. The region’s mild climate makes biking enjoyable year-round, with autumn bringing particularly vibrant colours.
- And finally, Wānaka’s bike-friendly community provides everything you need, from rentals and guided tours to well-maintained tracks, ensuring an unforgettable riding experience.
Best bike trails in Wānaka
The good news is that this part of the Southern Alps caters for everyone on two wheels.
- Family with younger kids? Check.
- Adrenalin-seeking older kids? Check.
- Road cyclist seeking breathtaking views? Check.
- Mountain biker craving adrenaline-pumping trails? Check.
- Casual rider looking to get that bit further round the lake? Check.
Yep, Wānaka really does have something for anyone and everyone on two wheels.
Further good news is the range of trails – the list runs long – that are also suitable for all ranges of abilities and energy levels. We’ve done the hard graft for you and selected the best and our favourites, ordered here by difficulty and rider type.
Easy, family-friendly trails
We’ve chosen these as ideal for families with young children. They’re all bikeable from Wānaka itself – perfect if you’ve picked a holiday home in town – and stroller-friendly in case the youngest isn’t old enough for a bike.
A quick note before we jump into the list: just because these bike rides are easy, it doesn’t mean they skimp on scenery or views. Wānaka always delivers on those.
Wānaka Township to Beacon Point
Distance: 1.5k
Type of bike: any
An easy, flat ride along the lakeside from the Dinosaur Park to Beacon Point beach, passing Wānaka Yacht Club, Eely Point and Bremner Bay. There are plenty of picnic, swimming and BBQ spots as well as endless photo opportunities.
Wānaka Township to Waterfall Creek Track
Distance: 2.5k
Type of bike: any
From town, you can bike around the lake edge to Waterfall Creek. Head along the western side of the lake, where an easy, flat track takes you past the iconic ‘Wānaka Tree’ and Wānaka Station Park. You will also head past Edgewater Resort, a great coffee or lunch stop and then Rippon Vineyard, before finishing up at Waterfall Creek.
Minaret Burn Track
Distance: 7k
Type of bike: any
This track takes you along the beautiful beaches on the western shore of Lake Wānaka . Do stop for a swim and/or picnic on the small, sheltered Colquhouns Beach. As well as lake views, the scenery includes native forest and bush country, crisscrossed with streams.
Lake Wānaka Outlet Track
Distance: 8k
Type of bike: any
The ride from Wānaka town to the Outlet Camping comes brimming with stunning lakefront views. This scenic, mostly flat trail is perfect for families and beginners, offering plenty of spots to pause, take in the breathtaking surroundings, and even enjoy a refreshing dip in Lake Wānaka.
With its gentle terrain and picturesque setting, it’s a must for those looking to explore the beauty of Wānaka on two wheels.
The beauty of this trail is that it offers various options. Extend your ride by turning back the way you came. Or you can continue and complete your journey in Albert Town and reward your efforts by indulging in a spectacular almond croissant at Pembroke Patisserie. Those seeking an even longer ride can head back towards town via the road.
Easy to moderate trails
This selection of bike rides covers longer distances – allow at least two hours for most of them. If you’re in Wānaka with the family, these routes are suitable for older children or younger kids who are used to riding further.
Deans Bank
Distance: 11k
Type of bike: mountain bikes
This trail comes with tight corners, beams and banks – ideal for intermediate mountain bikers – and easier sections for those cutting their teeth on a mountain bike. Everyone gets to enjoy the amazing views of the Clutha River and Southern Alps, and ride through a typical Otago landscape with matagouri and tussock vegetation.
Note that this trail is one-way – make sure you’re following it in the right direction to avoid collisions!
The Hāwea River Track
Distance: 12k
Type of bike: any
The Hāwea River Track connects Wānaka to Lake Hāwea, following the tranquil river through a mix of forest, farmland, and open landscapes. With its easy-to-moderate terrain, this smooth trail is perfect for a relaxing ride while taking in the stunning natural surroundings. It’s also a popular trail for those looking to explore Wānaka’s cycling routes by e-bike or the in-vogue gravel bike.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely cycle or a family-friendly adventure, the Hāwea River Track offers a peaceful escape into Wānaka’s breathtaking outdoors.
Note that you need to carry bikes on the steps at the south end of the trail.
Upper Clutha River Track
Distance: 14k
Type of bike: any
This trail sets off from Lake Wānaka Outlet for Luggate, along the banks of the emerald-green Clutha River. The shaded trail offers respite from the heat in summer and the elements in winter.
Note that you can loop this trail if you combine it with the Newcastle Track (see below), located on the true left of the river.
Newcastle Track
Distance: 12.5k
Type of bike: mountain bike
This time, you’re on the other side of the Clutha River (the true left), and the trail swings up and down as you go, making it more of a challenge than the right bank. On the way, you’ll ride through typical Otago grasslands and take in Kanuka and Matagori landscapes.
Note that the entrance/exit to the trail is via the Hāwea River Swing bridge, near Albert Town.
Hikuwai Loop
Distance: 9k
Type of bike: any, but best for mountain bikes
This loop consists of two tracks that merge into a circuit, best done in a clockwise direction. Start your ride from the car park at the Outlet Track or from Aubrey Road, 1km east.
Note that the trail is single-track and there are a few steep wooden structures over fences.
Waterfall Creek to Glendhu Bay
Distance: 15k
Type of bike: any
Once the trail leaves Waterfall Creek, it runs above Lake Wānaka (look out for the spectacular views) to Damper Bay, a small beach that’s a good stop for a refreshing dip in the summer. You then cycle along more or less flat terrain to Glendhu Bay, where the views of Mount Aspiring are second to none.
Note that the first section is quite hilly, with short, steep slopes.
Intermediate to advanced trails
Now we’re talking serious cyclists, with routes that are longer and/or more challenging. The extra distance and effort will reap rewards, though, as you venture into some of Wānaka ’s most spectacular scenery.
Grandview Ridge Track
Distance: 38.5k
Type of bike: mountain bikes
A classic on the Wānaka cycling scene, this route offers exceptional views of the upper Clutha Valley and the Southern Alps. The poled route dips up and down, and the distance makes it advisable only for advanced riders. There are, however, shorter distances, starting at 10k. See the Grandview Ridge Track website.
Note that some sections are closed for lambing in the spring.
Millennium Track
Distance: 17k
Type of bike: mountain bikes
This is a must-ride trail, stretching from Wānaka to Glendhu Bay with stunning lakefront views along the way. This scenic ride takes you through rolling hills, native bush, and peaceful bays, offering plenty of spots to stop and take in the breathtaking surroundings.
The mostly intermediate trail is perfect for those looking for a mix of short steep climbs and fun descents, with the reward of reaching beautiful Glendhu Bay at the end. Whether you’re after a leisurely ride or a bit of adventure, this track is a Wānaka classic!
Pisa Range
Distance: from 6k to 24k
Type of bike: mountain bike
If you like your biking high up, this conservation area is for you. The 22,000-hectare Pisa Range area is the highest in Central Otago and has simply spectacular views of the Upper Clutha and Wakatipu. The Southern Alps sit majestically on the horizon.
Note that many of the trails are snow-covered from May to November, making this area ideal for cycling in the summer and early autumn.
You have several trails to choose from:
Meg Hut Track
A high-country mountain bike ride to an iconic back-country hut on the Pisa Range. A reasonable level of fitness is required for this track (just 6km), but you will be rewarded with the views and the feeling of isolation amongst the mountains.
Kirtle Burn Track
This 12.4k ride takes you up a steep zig-zag on its way to Mount Pisa. It then drops down to Kirtle Burn Hut, before following the Burn back. You cross the stream twice on the return – look out for the water as you come downhill or if it’s snowy.
Little Criffel
Definitely one for experienced mountain bikers because the 19k route includes sections of steep climbs, poor traction (expect to have to get off and walk), unmarked trails, but the panoramic views along the way will be more than worth it.
Note that the section between the Cardrona River to Little Criffel is closed in October for lambing.
Rock Peak Track
One of the shorter routes in the Pisa Range, but also one with the best views. The 3.8km take you from the car park up to Rock Peak, where the views are simply stunning.
Wānaka bike parks
If you’re looking for cycling for everyone and in one place, these mountain bike parks will tick the boxes.
Bike Glendhu
Suitable for: beginner to advanced
Bike Glendhu is a world-class, purpose-built bike park offering a variety of downhill tracks suited to all skill levels. With approximately 35 km of expertly designed single-track trails, riders can enjoy everything from flowing beginner-friendly routes to technical descents for advanced bikers.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Glendhu Bay and Lake Wānaka, the park combines stunning scenery with an unforgettable riding experience. Whether you’re after a leisurely ride or an adrenaline-fuelled challenge, Bike Glendhu is a must-visit destination for mountain biking enthusiasts.
We’ve teamed up with Bike Glendhu. Check out our Stay and Play packages here
Cardrona Bike Park
Suitable for: advanced
Cardrona Bike Park is a premier destination for advanced mountain bikers and downhill enthusiasts, offering multiple high-altitude trails with steep descents and technical challenges. Set in breathtaking alpine terrain, the park provides an adrenaline-pumping experience with lift-accessed trails, allowing riders to maximise their downhill thrills. From fast, flowy runs to rugged, technical sections, Cardrona delivers the ultimate MTB adventure for those seeking high-speed action and epic scenery.
Sticky Forest
Suitable for: intermediate to advanced
Sticky Forest is a mountain biking playground, offering a network of loops ranging from 5 to 20 km through a dense pine forest. This intermediate-to-advanced trail system is packed with flowy single tracks, thrilling downhill sections, and exciting jumps, making it a must-ride for MTB enthusiasts. With a mix of technical challenges and smooth, fast descents, Sticky Forest delivers an adrenaline-fuelled experience while immersing riders in Wānaka’s stunning natural scenery.
Where to Rent a Bike in Wānaka
From commuter e-bikes, to full suspension downhill mountain bikes, there are a number of bike rental shops in Wānaka to suit your needs.
• Outside Sports Wānaka – 48 Helwick Street
• Bike Lounge Wānaka – 39 Helwick Street
• Bike it Now – 97 Sir Tim Wallis Drive
• Racers Edge – 99 Ardmore Street
Tips for Biking in Wānaka
Plan your route – choose a trail based on your skill level and fitness. Don’t overestimate your leg power, especially on the first day in the saddle!
Download offline trail maps – especially if you’re venturing into Pisa Range. We recommend Trailforks.
Check the weather – conditions in Wānaka can change at the drop of a hat. Stay hydrated – take water, especially on longer rides and always in the summer.
Stay safe in the mountains and water – be aware that weather conditions up high change quickly and temperatures can drop even in high summer. Be careful when crossing streams and rivers – avoid crossing the Cardrona River in wet conditions as the water can rise.
Respect the trails – follow signs, stay on the designated trail, avoid damaging vegetation and always give way to walkers.
Start early – in summer to beat the afternoon heat and tourist traffic, and in winter, to make the most of the short days.
Pack the gear – make sure you have a basic repair kit (for punctures and loose parts) because bike shops aren’t always close to trailheads. Think about E-bikes – having extra power on hilly routes can make all the difference!
Staying for the ride: renting a holiday home in Wānaka
If you’re coming to Wānaka specifically to ride, a holiday home makes a lot more sense than a hotel. It’s not just about comfort, it’s practical.
Bikes are awkward. They’re expensive, they get muddy, and they need somewhere to live that isn’t your bedroom. A holiday home with a garage or a covered outdoor area means you’re not wrestling your bike into a lift at the end of the day or worrying about it getting nicked from a car park. If you’re travelling with a group of cyclists, you can split the cost and end up with more space for less money than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Self-catering matters too. Long days on the trails burn through a lot of energy, and being able to cook your own meals means you’re eating what you need, when you need it, rather than hunting for a restaurant that’s still serving at 9pm after a big ride (NB that’s unlikely in Wānaka!). Or you could treat yourselves to a private chef
What to look for when booking
- Secure bike storage. A lockable garage is ideal, but a covered outdoor area makes a good second best. Check the listing carefully and contact us if it’s not clear.
- A washing and drying space. You will need this, especially if you’re mountain biking or cycling with kids. Wānaka weather is unpredictable, and kit dries slowly in cool temperatures.
- Location. East Wānaka puts you close to Sticky Forest. Closer to town gets you easy access to the lakefront path and the main hire shops. Neither is a bad choice — the town is small enough that nothing is far.
Outdoor space. Somewhere to sit outside at the end of the day matters more than you’d think after hours in the saddle (especially if there’s an outdoor fire – and we have plenty of those). And if there’s a hot tub to relax those leg muscles in, so much the better!
When to book
Wānaka is busy. The December to February summer period fills up fast, and Easter is another crunch point. If you’re planning a peak-season trip, book accommodation well in advance as good properties go months ahead.
The shoulder autumn season – March to May – is worth considering: trails are quieter, the autumn colours around the lake are genuinely stunning from late March, and you’ll have more choice on where to stay.
FAQs about biking in Wānaka
- What is the best time of year to cycle in Wānaka? You can cycle at any time of year, but we’d recommend late spring, then late summer and autumn (Feb–May) for dry trails and cooler temperatures
- Do I need to book bike hire in advance? Yes, especially over the Christmas–New Year and Easter periods
- Are the trails suitable for children? Several are, particularly the lakefront path and easier Sticky Forest loops. See our selection above.
- Is road cycling safe around Wānaka? Generally yes.
- Can I bring my bike on a flight into Queenstown? Yes – most airlines allow it as oversized luggage, but check packaging requirements
- What level of fitness do I need? It depends on the trails you choose. They range from very easy (lakefront) to very demanding (Grandview Ridge) – there really is something for everyone!
Final thoughts
Whether you’re cruising alongside Lake Wānaka on gentle trails or tackling technical MTB tracks and jumps, biking in Wānaka is an unforgettable experience. With world-class trails, stunning scenery, and a welcoming bike community, it’s no wonder Wānaka is a top cycling destination in New Zealand!
Contact us here to discuss your next trip to Wānaka.