Mountain Biking in Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs is a mountain biking mecca, with trails that slice through fragrant pine forests and tumble down ancient river terraces. The network is a mix of purpose-built flow trails and classic Kiwi backcountry single track, all set against a backdrop of the snow-dusted Seaward Kaikōura Range. Whether you're a beginner seeking smooth grades or a gnarled veteran chasing technical descents, Hanmer delivers a world-class ride without the crowds of Queenstown.

Highlights & What to See

• Woodland Walk & The Links: A gentle, rolling trail that winds through towering pines and across creeks — perfect for warming up or a family outing.
• Dog Stream Track: A classic Hanmer descent with berms, rollers, and a few rock gardens that will test your nerve and reward with grins.
• Mt Isobel Trail: A lung-busting climb (or a shuttle-assisted blast) that opens onto epic views of the Hanmer Basin before plunging down a steep, rooty single track.
• Hanmer Heritage Forest: A network of intermediate trails with playful features like boardwalks and tabletops, all shaded by century-old pines.
• Jack's Pass: A remote, backcountry-style loop that traverses alpine tussock and offers a true sense of wilderness just minutes from town.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most riders find that two full days allow a thorough exploration of the best trails, with time for a rest day soaking in the hot pools. If you're short on time, a single day hitting the highlights (Dog Stream and Mt Isobel) is rewarding — but you'll want to stay longer. Shuttle services and bike hire are available in town, making it easy to maximise riding time.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa: The ultimate post-ride recovery, with mineral pools and spa treatments just a short pedal from the trails.
• Waiau Ferry Bridge: A historic bridge crossing the Waiau River, with access to the St James Cycle Trail — a multi-day backcountry adventure.
• Kaikōura: A two-hour drive north, offering coastal mountain biking and the famous Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway.
• Christchurch: The gateway city, with the Port Hills and Bottle Lake Forest providing excellent urban trail networks.
• Molesworth Station: New Zealand's largest farm, accessible via a challenging 4WD and bike route through the upper Awatere Valley.

Please check official sources for current details.