Best Mountain Bike Trails in Karangahake Gorge
Karangahake Gorge Loop is a challenging 9.1-mile route following the Ohinemuri and Waitawheta Rivers through spectacular scenery including waterfalls, swimming holes, glowworms, and old goldmine caves connected by historic tunnels and bridges. Located between Paeroa and Waihi (about 130km from Auckland or 60km from Hamilton), the shared hiking and biking path explores a landscape steeped in goldmining heritage. Note: As of January 2026, the Hauraki Rail Trail section through the gorge is temporarily closed due to storm damage, though the loop trail remains accessible.
Trails
Showing 1 - 3 of 3 trails
Easy
1m
70m
-56m
This walkway features historic railway remains in a stunning natural gorge setting, including two steel truss bridges and a 1 km rail tunnel, and provide access to the relics of historic gold mining. The walkway follows the railway line through the gorge and then opens out alongside the Ohinemuri River, passing through the huge Victoria Battery complex and terminating at the Waikino Station where a cafe and train rides can be investigated.A shorter loop section can be walked, that includes both the bridges and the 1100 m railway tunnel at Karangahake.
Easy
58m
1m
Easiest
3.9m
407m
-63m
4 hr, 4.3 km (return)A network of tracks provides access to the summit and the forested flanks of Karangahake Mountain. It takes about 2 hrs 30 mins to reach the top, becoming steep and exposed towards the top. A circuit can also be done by taking the County Road Track around the mountain.