Image: Michael Schwab | ©
Biker on suspension bridge, Timber Trail.
The Timber Trail: Pureora - Ongarue

Located in Pureora Forest Park in the Waikato region

Using historic bush tramways, old bulldozer and haul roads, and newly constructed track, this Grade 3 trail features 35 bridges, including some of the highest and longest in New Zealand. This track is part of Te Araroa Trail.

This track is part of the Timber Trail.

Private land

Different rules apply on the Timber Trail between Bennett Road trail head and Ongarue Spiral  – as this is privately owned land. This means recreational activities such as hunting, carrying firearms, and the presence of dogs are strictly prohibited at all times.

This track is part of Te Araroa Trail.

The Timber Trail passes through magnificent podocarp forests of rimu, totara, miro, matai and kahikatea, as well as some exotic forestry and more open vegetation, offering extensive views of the surrounding landscape. Utilising historic bush tramways, and old bulldozer and haul roads, it features 35 bridges including 8 large suspension bridges (the longest being 141 m). It also showcases the historic Ongarue Spiral, a marvel of engineering.

Obstacles may be encountered on the trail, and there may be exposure on the edge of the trail. Riders should expect rougher or narrowed terrain in places which may impact the ride quality, particularly for those expecting a smoother surface. It is suitable for riders with some fitness and the skills to avoid obstacles and loose or muddy sections. There are splendid views of the valleys, beautiful regenerating podocarp forest, and lots of history to be seen.

You may encounter walkers, hunters, and motorbikes along the trail. Small sections of the trail are also on public road, so watch for road crossings and share with care.

The Timber Trail – Pureora to Ongarue

Track category: Intermediate/Grade 3

While the trail may be ridden in either direction, the topography will encourage most people to ride from North to South, ie from Pureora to Ongarue. This direction is advised where possible.

Beginning in Barryville Road, the Timber Trail winds through the Pikiariki Ecological Area before climbing Mount Pureora. Riders should expect a steady incline with some steep sections between the 6 and 14 km markers. The track then sidles around the mountain at 940 m above sea level, travelling across two large suspension bridges before heading down toward the mid-point of the trail at Piropiro.

You may encounter walkers and hunters along the trail. Small sections of the trail are also on public road, so watch for road crossings and share with care.

This is a Grade 3 (Intermediate) ride.

The Timber Trail – Pureora to Piropiro (43 km)

Track category: Intermediate/Grade 3

While the trail may be ridden in either direction, the topography will encourage most people to ride from North to South; ie from Pureora to Ongarue.

Beginning in Barryville Road, the Timber Trail winds through the Pikiariki Ecological Area before climbing Mount Pureora. The track then sidles around the mountain at 940 m above sea level, travelling across two large suspension bridges before heading down toward the mid point of the trail at Piropiro.

This is an intermediate ride. Watch for road crossings near Piropiro.

The Timber Trail – Piropiro to Ongarue (42 km)

Track category: Intermediate/Grade 3

The historic Ellis and Burnand tramline, the Ongarue Spiral and the magnificent Maramataha Bridge all await your close inspection on this beautiful piece of cycle trail.

A short ride from the Piropiro campsite and a 30 minute climb will place you on the northern side of the 141 m Maramataha Bridge. Over the bridge, the steepest climb on the trail leads to the most northern end of the Ellis and Burnand tramline, which is followed for the majority of the ride to Ongarue. This stretch is of intermediate gradient with some steep uphill climbs and downhill descents.

A gate and squeeze bars have been installed near marker 77 to assist contractors logging in the area. These are at the bottom of the tram, marking the end of a steep descent. Take care coming down the hill from marker 76.

You may encounter walkers and hunters along the trail. Small sections of the trail are also on public road, so share with care.

This is a Grade 3 (intermediate) ride.

Pikiariki village to Pureora Maunga forest edge (8 km one way)

Track category: Intermediate/Grade 3

The trail begins in the picturesque Pikiariki Ecological Area, about 200 m from the DOC Pureora Field Base on Barryville Road and across from the Timber Trail car park. Be sure to head left inside the entrance way, or you will end up on the Totara Walk which is for walkers only.

The trail crosses a boardwalk then winds its way through tall podocarps. Listen out for birds, especially kākā, which are active in this section of forest. The trail crosses Whareana Road and then Cabbage Tree Road before winding through an area of toitoi, cabbage tree, five finger and kamahi regenerating after milling. It crosses Tui Road, finishing at the shelter and picnic table near the base of Pureora Maunga.

This section is particularly suited to families with young children, however as part of the Timber Trail it is classified as a Grade 3 (Intermediate) ride with steady inclines and tighter corners.

Crawler tractor loop (5 km)

Track category: Intermediate/Grade 3

This is a shorter option and involves returning to Pureora Village via Link Road. Cycle the first 3 km of the Timber Trail then take the side track to the Caterpillar Crawler Tractor. The tractor was used to recover fencing material from totara logs during the 1930s and 40s. Continue out to Link Road before turning left and following the road back to the start.

It is suitable for all ages and another family friendly option, however as part of the Timber Trail it is classified as a Grade 3 (Intermediate) ride. This is also a lovely walk, taking around 1.5 hours to complete.

The Timber Trail begins in Pureora Forest and is easily accessed off SH30 between Te Kuiti and Mangakino.

The central part of the trail, can be accessed from Piropiro campsite at the end of Kokomiko Road, Waimiha, and from Ongarue, via SH4 at the southern end. There is highway signage near Pureora and Ongarue to direct riders to the ends of the trail.

What to expect

The Timber Trail is a Grade 3 (intermediate) backcountry mountain biking experience. You can expect to encounter:

  • Alpine weather, particularly near Mt Pureroa. Cold temperatures, strong wind and rain are common.
  • Long uphill stretches, as the track climbs to 940 m above sea level.
  • Many high bridges and steep drops next to the track in some places.
  • Trees fallen across the track, particularly after high wind or heavy rain.
  • Rock falls, particularly between Piropiro and Ongarue.

Skills/experience you need

To enjoy the Timber Trail, you need the experience and skill to handle an Intermediate: Grade 3 trail. You also need the fitness to ride for 7 hours a day, including long periods of uphill.

If you would like a shorter or easier alternative to the full trip, there are good day trip options that are graded as Easy: Grade 2.

How to plan and prepare