River crossings and awesome beech forest riding
Tree Trunk Gorge
The Tree Trunk Gorge trail will take you on a picturesque journey through the Kaimanawa Forest Park. It passes through classic central North Island beech forest, across streams and rivers and over two impressive gorges as it tracks along the upper section of the Tongariro River.
About an hour south of Taupo, this gem of a ride is just off the Desert Road. It has river crossings, rocks, and awesome beech forest riding. You can turn around at the Pillars of Hercules and ride back the same way, or take the more challenging track back out to the State Highway and ride back along the road a few kilometres to your starting point.
This single track trail is great fun, but be prepared to get wet feet as there are river crossings along the route. A grade 4 trail, it is most suited to experienced riders and intermediate riders seeking a challenge.