Lake 2 Lake Bike Trail

We just had a short break away staying in Manapouri, and one of the things I wanted to do was ride the Lake 2 Lake Trail. After 3 days of heavy rain it finally cleared with perfect riding weather. This trail goes from Te Anau to Manapouri (or vice versa) with only about 4 km still uncompleted which means riding on the road. The road isn't busy, all flat and has a pretty decent shoulder.

This isn't a very long trail...only 32 kms, but the scenery is gorgeous and the trail itself is great fun to ride. A few little climbs, a nice bit of winding single track and a very good surface. 

We decided to start in Te Anau, though I think this did mean more hills!

The trail starts out around the edge of Lake Te Anau then veers inland, following the Waiau River on and off most of the way.

Riding through the beech forest is so beautiful, it's hard to capture in the photo how green and lush it was...old fallen tree trunks covered in moss, all sorts of lichen and fungi.

There are a few wee climbs that take you out of the beech forest and to some spectacular views.

Then after the short ride on the road you pretty much ride through manuka bush, all the manuka was flowering and it looked lovely. You get the odd glimpse of the Waiau River and finally you end up at Lake Manapouri. I really enjoyed this part of the trail, nice winding track and no climbs.

After the ride we had a nice cold beer at the The Church Bar and Eatery, then headed back to the Manapouri Holiday Park where we were staying.

This is an old style camping ground with a lot of character. Our first 4 nights we had this place...wonderful views of the lake and mountains.

Then we decided to stay one more night and had to relocate to this cute place.

I would definitely ride this trail again, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the way...perfect day!

" In a world of constant change and streaming technology, I find solace in the forest where a tree remains a tree."

                                                        Angie Weiland-Crosby