One of New Zealand's Great Rides, the connected pathways of this ride take riders on a journey from the Tongariro Mountains through the unique and mystical Whanganui valleys to the Tasman sea.
The Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail takes in the alpine majesty of Mount Ruapehu, the historic Ohakune Old Coach Road, the fascinating Bridge to Nowhere as well as jet boat and kayak transport options for the Whanganui River link to Pipiriki. From there follow the picturesque Whanganui River Road and take in the beauty and history of the area before arriving at the Tasman Sea in Whanganui.
Take four days and three nights and ride the 1600m vertical descent over nearly 200 km of cycle trail linked by a 32 km river section by jet boat.
The official start point of the trail is in Ohakune township, but riders can begin the trail from any point and follow trail markers and signs along the journey to meet at the Mangapurua Trig before descending the 26 km to the Bridge to Nowhere and Mangapurua Landing on the Whanganui River, ride the jet boat to Pipiriki to begin your final ride down the Whanganui River Road to the sea in Whanganui.
The alternative start taking in a Grade 4 section of the trail starts in National Park Village, the adventure centre of the dual World Heritage Tongariro National Park.
Day ride options and packages are supported from Ohakune, National Park Village, or Raetihi returning each day to your preferred accommodation. Alternatively, plan your journey to start at any of these communities then follow Cycle Trail maps and signs to your preferred accommodation.
The best direction to ride is from the Mountains of Tongariro National Park to the Tasman Sea at Whanganui. Along the trail, there are many access points according to your preferences and self-supported itinerary options.
Trail maps and information brochures are available at all Ruapehu and Whanganui I-Sites. Accommodation providers and trail signboards are located along the trails at key locations and regular trail confirmation marker posts ensure you are on the right trail.
Have you ridden the trail? We would love you to participate in a 5-minute survey. New Zealand Cycle Trail are keen to ensure our cycle trails give you the best experience possible and would love feedback from your recent ride.
