Autumn: a fantastic time in Tekapo. Arriving in to Tekapo from Dog Kennel Corner: Photo credit - Breathe Tekapo
Tour de Tekapo
At Lake Tekapo, cycling with your family is a truly delightful experience that everyone can enjoy together. With numerous family-friendly bike trails readily available, you can explore the stunning beauty of the area at your own leisurely pace. Take in the breathtaking views as you enjoy the scenic lakefront trail that leads to the popular Willow Bay, perfect for a quiet family picnic. Also not to be missed are the Cowans Hill, the new Recreation Zone trails in the Tekapo Forest, the Lagoon, and Frog Rock trails, as well as the expansive Regional Park—there is truly something for every rider, regardless of skill level or age. Before you make a booking, we recommend checking the local weather forecast. We suggest having a small day pack for spare/surplus clothing, water and snacks. Guide available on request.
Some local rides are available on the Trail Forks app. Local trail grades range from 1 - 3 but most are grade 1 - 2. Below is the New Zealand, and Department of Conservation Trail Grading System.
View from the Recreation Zone trail area
Grade One: suitable for novice riders, families and others seeking an easy, relaxing cycling experience. Most bikes are suitable, including touring bikes, hybrid bikes and children’s bikes. E-bikes are also suitable as long as they are ridden appropriately and have sufficient battery capacity.
Off-road trails are smooth (firm gravel or sealed), with only gentle climbs and generally wide enough for side-by-side riding. Many follow old rail trails. On-road sections of Great Rides generally follow quiet roads with little traffic.
Grade Two: Suitable for most riders including beginners, occasional cyclists and families with limited cycling experience. A multi-geared bike with medium to wide knobbly tyres is recommended, such as a comfort bike, touring bike or mountain bike. E-bikes are also suitable as long as they are ridden appropriately and have sufficient battery capacity.
Off-road trails are usually wide and smooth (firm gravel or sealed), with some gentle climbs. These trails are predictable, i.e. have no nasty surprises. On-road sections of Great Rides generally follow quiet roads with little traffic.
Lake Tekapo Bridge
Pass to Pass: a little bit of history
Cycle the famous Mackenzie Pass to Burkes Pass.
Depart Tekapo 9am, return no later than 1pm. A fabulous half day out.
Option 1: start from Tekapo = 55km
Option 2: start from 39km from Dog Kennel Corner = 39km
Ride via the Mackenzie Pass. Traveling from Tekapo, or Dog Kennel Corner, over the Mackenzie Pass to Burkes Pass offers a pleasant day of cycling for those looking to explore this scenic route.
Price $80.00/bike hire; shuttle $60.00pp minimum two people. E bike hire is +$40/bike. This ride may require two shuttles; one to Dog Kennel Corner, then a return from Burkes Pass.
The long ride starts from Tekapo on the new cycle trail to Dog Kennel corner, which is flat and downhill. Then, turn right onto Haldon Arm Road. The first 13km is a smooth, slightly downhill road. Next, turn left onto Mackenzie Pass, which has a gradual climb that gets steeper near the top (you can walk this part). After that, enjoy a long descent to Rollesby Valley Road, turn left here. This road is mostly unsealed with very few vehicles, and you might see some sheep.
#tekapotoby #biketekapo and Facebook: BeSpoke Bike Tours NZ
