When we make the effort and take the time to go for a ride with kids, we want it to be an enjoyable experience. To have a ‘great day’ on the bike with kids there are simple things to think about, plan and do.
In this story we are riding in the – Rotorua Mountain Bike Park (Whakarewa Forest) in Rotorua on some of the beginner to intermediate tracks with Sam 13 yrs old and Hollie 11yrs old and Mum and Dad.
Where is it?
The main entrance to the park is off state highway 5. Waipa Carpark. There are other car parks available to offer easier access to other parts of the mountain bike park
What is there?
Simply great facilities. Masses of car parking but don’t be fooled it still can get quite full, toilets/showers, cafe, wash down station for bikes, bike hire and repair, Map boards showing the multiple trails for all riding levels, skills park.
Shuttles are also available to take you and your bike further into the park. Check out all the info – where/how/times etc here. Tickets can be pre-purchased or you can pay by cash/eftpos/visa on the bus. A great way to get the kids further into the park.
The ride – is it doable for you?
This park has something for everyone. It is a matter of working out what will work best for your family.
Biking Distance? The length of this ride is entirely at your discretion you have an extensive network of tracks spread out over a large area. These tracks range from grade 1 through to grade 6 advanced. It is about you picking the level that suits your family. Trails range from approximately 0.5km through to 4km.
Biking Surface/Biking Skills required/Level of biking fitness: The surface, the level of skills required as well as your fitness requirement will depend on the level of difficulty of that particular trail. Match the trail to your requirements.
Can you ride with Kids Attached? This is a ride that you can enjoy with kids attached.
- Some additional support may help get the kids riding in the Rotorua Mountain Bike Park.
- For independent riders : The Towhee Tow Rope may help assist getting them up a hill, or keeping up with the siblings.
- Attached to your bike: The Shotgun offers you the ability to enjoy the mountain biking park with your younger kids. You will need to ride to your ability making sure you are keeping them safe. A rear bike seat could also be used by an experienced rider (on a bike with no rear suspension) Grade 1 or Grade 2 Trails.
Some Trails that our Family Enjoyed.
For younger and/or less confident riders: From the Waipa Carpark there lots of fun little loops to create on the Kids Loop/Tahi/The Dipper/Pig Track. Bike along the Very Safe Trail and gain access into Ball and Chain/Purarenga and Yellow Brick Road Trails. The Dodzy Skills Park can be a great place to have a play. You can tailor the skills area to your level of skill development.
For intermediate riders: There are just so many options – that is the joy. Here are a few we loved Challenge, Tokorangi, Turkish Delight, Split Enz, Roller Coaster, B Rude Not 2 and more. Basically you need to come and give them a go and find your favourites. We all enjoyed the intermediate trails everyone in our family got something from them.
Getting the shuttle up into the park
Kids enjoying riding trails to match their level
Washing the dirt and grit off the bike at the end of your riding session
Be safe and comfortable when riding the Rotorua Mountain Bike Park.
How far you are venturing away from your base will determine the amount of gear you need to carry. As the riding network is quite extensive it is good to be prepared so you can manage any situation. Whether that be an injury, energy or water requirements. Also the option of layers to ensure everyone is riding at a comfortable temperature.
Enjoy the experience and have fun
Some things to look out for on the
- Dodzy Skills Park is a great play area on the bike for all levels.
- Let the kids lead the way. Let them find the tracks and work out what signs and names they should look for along the way. The signs in this mountain bike park are really well done so are perfect for those new to map reading.
- If you get high enough there are some neat views over the lake to enjoy
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