Mountain Biking Trails

Hanmer Springs is a mountain biking mecca, offering trails that wind through ancient beech forest, over river valleys, and up to alpine viewpoints. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned rider, the network around the Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve delivers flowy singletrack, technical descents, and epic scenery that will have you reaching for your bike every day.

Highlights & What to See

• Dog Stream Track – A classic climb through lush beech forest, rewarding with sweeping views of the Hanmer Basin. The descent is fast and fun, with well-banked corners.
• Jollies Pass Loop – A challenging 25 km ride that climbs to the pass and drops into the Waiau River valley. The singletrack is technical in places, but the alpine scenery is unforgettable.
• Conical Hill Track – A shorter but steep option that gains the summit of Conical Hill for panoramic views over the township and surrounding mountains. Great for a morning warm-up.
• Waterfall Track – A beginner-friendly ride that leads to a cascading waterfall, perfect for a picnic stop. The trail is wide and well-graded, ideal for families.
• Hanmer Springs MTB Park – A purpose-built trail centre with graded loops from green to black, including jump lines and berms. The skills area is perfect for honing technique.
• Waiau River Trail – A flat, scenic ride along the Waiau River, connecting to the historic township and thermal pools. Great for a relaxed afternoon spin.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most riders spend 2 to 4 days exploring the network. A typical day might include a morning climb on Dog Stream Track, lunch at the summit, and a thrilling descent back to town. If you're short on time, a half-day on the MTB Park trails or a quick loop on Conical Hill can be squeezed into an afternoon.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve – Soak tired muscles in natural mineral pools after a day on the trails.
• Waiau Ferry Bridge – A historic bridge crossing the Waiau River, with riverside walks and picnic spots.
• Kaikoura – A scenic 1.5-hour drive east, offering coastal mountain biking and whale watching.
• Lewis Pass – For adventurous riders, the Lewis Pass area has backcountry trails and hot springs.
• Christchurch – The nearest city, with bike shops, rental hubs, and the Port Hills trails.

Please check official sources for current details.