Explore new walking trails with our Waipa Short Forest Walks map! Free for the public, this map has three family and dog-friendly trails, ranging from 20-60 minutes, that all start at the Waipa MTB Carpark. Features of the walks include bubbling mudpools, redwood groves, and stunning views across the lake and city.
While there are hundreds of amazing mountain biking tracks on this side of the forest, there are very few mapped short walks for people to explore, making it difficult for visitors to have the confidence to get out there without getting lost.
This map encourages walkers to download the free TrailForks app and access the walks using the QR codes on the map. The app gives you your live GPS location, so you’ll know where you’re going at all times. All walks have cellphone signal, and the map also includes info on what to do if you need some help in the forest.
These free Waipa Short Forest Walks maps are currently available from Secret Spot and the Waipa I-Site. Happy exploring!
Learn more about the different Waipa short forest walks here:
MUDPOOL LOOP
Length: 1.9km (20 minutes)
The Mudpool Loop is a short family friendly walk that takes you past the bubbling mudpool Te Pikitanga ki Whangapipiro. This walk will also take you through two stunning groves of redwood trees. Use the Flood Diversion trail if there’s been heavy rain. While there are some stony patches, this track is wide enough for strollers and e-bikes.
REDWOOD LOOP
Length: 3.1km (40 minutes)
The Redwood Loop takes you up steep stairs and into a beautiful Californian Redwood grove planted in 1901. This walk includes some great picnic spots and a fun boardwalk across a swamp. Use the Flood Diversion trail if there’s been heavy rain.
TRIG LOOP
Length: 3.5km (60 minutes)
The Trig Loop features amazing views from the Whaka Lookout of nearby thermal areas to Lake Rotorua and Mt Ngongotaha. The trig is 428m above sea level and this track has an extra option – the Waipa Lookout with views of the forest to the south. The track has steps and is steep in places. We’d recommend packing some snacks and water for this track, and using the QR code to see your GPS location on the map for the second half.
After exploring these awesome Waipa short forest walks, rest your tired legs in a Shinny Dip foot hot tub at Secret Spot. Shinny Dips are free with any purchase, and are available on a first-come-first-served basis.
Find a PDF of our Paper Waipa Walking Map Here
