It may have been a while... but this spring get back on your bike and join the kids for a ride.
There is an incredible network of family mountain biking trails in Rotorua and don't be daunted - the trails are not all difficult. There are 14 beginner trails inthe Whakarewarewa forest for children and family groups which are stunning and easy to ride. You'll even come across 3-year-olds on wooden bikes propelled by their little legs on the ground. You'll discover that mountain biking with the family is special because it's an adventure you're all having together in the outdoors. Everyone feels invigorated and bonded from the experience afterwards.
One of the favourite family trails in the forest is the Puarenga trail which runs next to a fresh spring stream, surrounded by beautiful punga trees. The trail is gorgeous with many stops along the way where you can sit and admire the refreshing, awe-inspiring setting. Some families even take a picnic in a backpack and enjoy it at stops along the way. With trails such as the Dipper, Tahi, Sweet'n'Sour, the Kid's loop and Pump track as well as the forest access roads which are beautiful themselves, there are a lot of places to explore.
The Waipa side of the Whakarewarewa Forest is also now a great hub to start and end at with Mountain Bike Rotorua on-site with a container cafe which offers delicious food and coffee.The outdoor setting under sails has tree stumps as seats and wooden tables.
The Pump track next to the cafe lets children practise their skills while their parents enjoy coffee, relaxing after the ride.
Mountain Bike Rotorua has hire bikes and guides who can take families out, including tandem bike options where young children who can't bike the trails themselves, will feel like they are. The other family biking option for exploring Rotorua city is the new Te Ara Ahi cycle trail. Starting at the Prince's Gate Archway, the trail makes its way past Rotorua Museum, Polynesian Spa, Sulphur Point, Te Puia and through the Hemo Gorge to Waipa where Mountain Bike Rotorua's hub and the Whakaerewarewa forest trails begin. With many interesting stops, it is a great way for the family to explore Rotorua.
