Sidewinder aka Side Winder Mountain Bike Trail

Q: How difficult is Sidewinder?

Sidewinder is rated Intermediate. The average grade is 11.3% with a maximum grade of -11.2%.

Q: How long is Sidewinder?

Sidewinder is 681.6m long with an estimated ride time of 8h 15m. The trail has 87m of climbing and -10m of descent.

Q: Are dogs allowed on Sidewinder?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Sidewinder. Please keep your dog under control and be considerate of other trail users.

Q: Are e-bikes allowed on Sidewinder?

E-bikes are allowed (Class 1 only) on Sidewinder.

Q: What is the current condition of Sidewinder?

The current condition of Sidewinder is variable.

Q: What is the elevation of Sidewinder?

Sidewinder ranges from 459m to 539m in elevation.

Q: Where is Sidewinder located?

Sidewinder is located in Whakarewarewa Forest, New Zealand.

Q: How popular is Sidewinder?

Sidewinder has a rating of 3.2 out of 5 based on 11 votes.

Status

OPEN

Difficulty

Intermediate

Distance

681.6m

Elevation

87m

-10m

Rating

3.2 (11)

Description

In 2014 Sidewinder was re-designated as an uphill only track. This allows riders who have descended on Eagle vs. Shark or Kataore trails to avoid the forestry road climb of Hill Road to get back to the bulk of trails (and closer to shuttle uplifts) on the singletrack climb of Sidewinder. Steep pinches will keep the fittest riders challenged. Moderate fitness will see some people walk sections.

Weather

Details

Condition

Variable

E-bike access

Class 1

Dogs

Allowed

Grade

11.3% avg, -11.2% max

Altitude range

459m to 539m

Region

Whakarewarewa Forest

Last updated

26 Mar 2026

Links

No links, yet!

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Lentil Link

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Black House Down

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Frequently asked questions

How difficult is Sidewinder?

How long is Sidewinder?

Are dogs allowed on Sidewinder?

Are e-bikes allowed on Sidewinder?

What is the current condition of Sidewinder?

What is the elevation of Sidewinder?

Where is Sidewinder located?

How popular is Sidewinder?

Explore this trail

View Sidewinder on the interactive map to see the full trail route and nearby trails.

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