New Zealand is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, offering spectacular landscapes and world-class adventure activities. Among the many thrilling experiences available, mountain biking stands out as one of the most popular and exhilarating. With its diverse terrain, from rugged coastlines to sweeping alpine vistas, New Zealand offers endless possibilities for mountain bikers of all levels. If you're planning a trip to this beautiful country and want to explore its best mountain biking trails, here are five epic routes that you simply have to ride.

1. The Old Ghost Road

Located on the South Island's West Coast, the Old Ghost Road is a 85-kilometer-long backcountry trail that traverses some of New Zealand's most remote and pristine wilderness. Built on an old miners' trail, the Old Ghost Road boasts stunning alpine scenery, deep valleys, and lush rainforests. The trail is considered one of the country's most challenging and rewarding, with steep climbs, technical descents, and numerous river crossings. It takes several days to complete the Old Ghost Road, but the effort is well worth the experience.

2. Queen Charlotte Track

If you're looking for a scenic and accessible ride, the Queen Charlotte Track on the South Island might be just what you need. This 72-kilometer-long coastal trail winds through the Marlborough Sounds, offering breathtaking views of the turquoise waters, lush forests, and rugged coastline. The Queen Charlotte Track is a mix of singletrack and wider gravel paths, making it suitable for riders of all levels. Along the way, you'll find plenty of accommodation options, ranging from luxury lodges to campsites, allowing you to customize your ride to your preferences.

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3. Heaphy Track

The Heaphy Track is another legendary backcountry trail that crosses the Kahurangi National Park on the South Island. The 78-kilometer-long trail takes riders through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to high mountain passes, offering stunning views of the Tasman Sea and the surrounding peaks. The Heaphy Track is a multi-day ride, with several huts along the way for overnight stays. The trail is considered intermediate to advanced, with challenging climbs and technical descents, but the scenery and sense of remoteness make it a must-ride for adventurous mountain bikers.

4. Redwoods Forest

Located in Rotorua on the North Island, the Redwoods Forest is a mountain biking playground that has become a favorite destination for riders from around the world. The forest boasts over 160 kilometers of purpose-built mountain biking trails, ranging from beginner-friendly to expert-only, making it suitable for riders of all levels. The trails wind through towering redwood trees, offering a mix of flowy berms, technical rock gardens, and jump lines. The Redwoods Forest also hosts several mountain biking events throughout the year, including the annual Crankworx festival, attracting top riders and enthusiasts alike.

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5. Craigieburn Trails

The Craigieburn Trails are a network of backcountry trails located in the Southern Alps on the South Island. The trails offer some of New Zealand's most challenging and rewarding rides, with steep climbs, technical descents, and breathtaking alpine scenery. The Craigieburn Trails are known for their long, flowy descents, punctuated by technical rock gardens and tight switchbacks, offering an adrenaline-fueled adventure for experienced riders. The trails are accessible only by shuttle or helicopter, adding to the sense of remoteness and adventure.

These five epic mountain biking trails in New Zealand are just a taste of what this beautiful country has to offer. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner rider, New Zealand's diverse terrain and stunning scenery provide endless possibilities for unforgettable mountain biking experiences. So grab your gear, hit the trails, and let the adventure begin.

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