Best Places to Mountain Bike in Auckland

Thomas Stuart
Sep 27
3 min read

Auckland has a thriving mountain bike scene, with trails for every style of rider — from smooth beginner loops to technical downhill parks. Whether you’re just getting into the sport, riding with friends, or looking to push your limits, there’s a trail within driving distance.

At Clycycles, we help riders get set up with the right bikes and gear for the trails they love. Here’s our guide to some of the best places to mountain bike in Auckland, including how long it takes to get there from our store.

1. Woodhill Mountain Bike Park

Travel time from Clycycles: ~35 minutes (via SH16)

Woodhill is Auckland’s most popular mountain bike park, and for good reason. It offers over 100 km of purpose-built trails catering to all levels, from kids’ loops to advanced jump lines and flow trails. The sandy soil drains well, so you can ride almost year-round without getting bogged down in mud.

Highlights:

Huge variety of trails for every skill level
On-site bike hire, café, and workshop
Great spot for a full-day mission with friends or family

2. Riverhead Forest

Travel time from Clycycles: ~35 minutes (northwest via SH16)

Riverhead is a favourite among locals looking for a more natural, rugged ride. The trails wind through pine forest and clay-based tracks that get challenging (and fun!) after rain. There’s a mix of hand-built singletrack, forestry roads, and some steep climbs — a great workout.

Highlights:

Technical singletrack with a raw, natural feel
Popular with riders who like to explore
Good mix of climbing and descending

Tip: Bring a map or use Trailforks — it’s easy to get lost on your first visit!

3. Fourforty Mountain Bike Park

Travel time from Clycycles: ~1 hour (southeast via SH1/SH2)

If you love downhill riding, Fourforty is the place to go. It’s a gravity-focused bike park with shuttles available, so you can spend the day smashing descents without worrying about pedalling back up.

Highlights:

Huge vertical drop (440m)
Trails from beginner flow to pro-level DH
Shuttle service, rental bikes, food, and pump track on-site

4. Totara Park

Travel time from Clycycles: ~30 minutes (south via SH1)

Totara Park is one of the most accessible riding spots for Aucklanders. It has a well-marked trail network with something for everyone — from beginner-friendly loops to advanced technical tracks.

Highlights:

Good mix of flow, climbs, and challenges
Easy to get to from most suburbs
Great for a quick after-work ride

5. Hunua Ranges

Travel time from Clycycles: ~1 hour (southeast via SH1)

The Hunua Ranges offer some of Auckland’s most scenic riding, with native bush, flowing descents, and long-distance loops. It’s a great place to get a “backcountry” experience without leaving Auckland.

Highlights:

Longer rides like Valley Loop (14km) and Mangatawhiri Challenge Track (15km)
Lush native forest and birdlife
Perfect for riders who enjoy climbing and endurance rides

6. Sanders Reserve (Paremoremo)

Travel time from Clycycles: ~30 minutes (northwest via SH18)

Sanders Reserve is a family-friendly riding spot with around 20 km of trails. There’s a dedicated kids’ track near the car park and plenty of space for picnics.

Highlights:

Beginner-friendly trails
Picnic areas and great views
Perfect for family weekends

7. Arch Hill Scenic Reserve

Travel time from Clycycles: ~10 minutes (inner-city ride)

Arch Hill is right in the middle of Auckland, making it the perfect spot for a quick session before or after work. The trails are short but fun, with options for beginners through to experienced riders.

Highlights:

Super close to the city
Great for short, intense rides
Good spot to build skills or squeeze in a mid-week ride

8. Tāwharanui Regional Park & Waiheke Island

Travel time from Clycycles:

Tāwharanui: ~1 hr 15 min drive north
Waiheke: ~40 min ferry + short drive/ride to trails

For a more scenic day out, these spots offer easier riding with beautiful coastal views. Perfect for a relaxed weekend ride.

Highlights:

Farm tracks, rolling hills, and ocean views
Great for picnics and family trips
Combine with a beach visit for a perfect day out

Tips for Riding Auckland’s MTB Trails

Check trail conditions: Some clay-based trails (like Riverhead) get very slippery after rain.
Take the essentials: Helmet, water, repair kit, and a charged phone.
Respect trail etiquette: Give way to walkers and uphill riders, and stick to marked trails.
Support local clubs: Many of these trails are built and maintained by volunteers — memberships and donations keep them open.

Get Trail-Ready with Clycycles

Whether you’re heading to Woodhill for a day out or taking on the technical trails at Riverhead, having the right bike makes all the difference. At Clycycles, we can: