Beginning on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu and winding for 231km to the wild west coast at Whanganui, the Mountains to Sea Ngā Ara Tūhono Cycle Trail is one of the North Island’s most dramatic rides.
Divided into eight separate sections, including a compulsory jet-boat ride, the Mountains to Sea trail is designed to take four to six days to complete.
From the Tūroa ski field and remarkable Old Coach Road in Ohakune, to luxuriant native bush and the famous river in Whanganui National Park, the trail covers the full diversity of North Island landscapes.
There are a number of detours to choose from along the way, including challenging mountain bike trails for more experienced riders and an abundance of short walks that take in the scenic and heritage highlights of each area.