Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail Tekapo Start
New Zealand's longest cycle trail, offering 300km of diverse landscapes from Tekapo to the coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail Tekapo Start
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
New Zealand's longest cycle trail, offering 300km of diverse landscapes from Tekapo to the coast.
"The views of Lake Pukaki and Aoraki/Mount Cook are absolutely stunning!"
Book Shuttles in Advance
Essential for logistics, especially for point-to-point rides. Book early! 🚌
Check Trail Conditions
Gravel sections can be tough. Stay updated on weather and trail status. ⚠️
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Pukaki Views
Along Lake Pukaki
Stunning turquoise waters with Aoraki/Mount Cook as a backdrop. Unforgettable scenery.
Aoraki/Mount Cook Vista
Visible from various points
The majestic peak of New Zealand's highest mountain offers breathtaking panoramas.
Diverse Landscapes
Throughout the trail
Experience rolling hills, vast plains, and glacial lakes on this epic journey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Start Smart: Tekapo's Trailhead
Trail Conditions & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Shuttles in Advance
Essential for logistics, especially for point-to-point rides. Book early! 🚌
Check Trail Conditions
Gravel sections can be tough. Stay updated on weather and trail status. ⚠️
Pack for All Weather
NZ weather is unpredictable. Layers are key for comfort. ☁️ :sunwithface:
Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, especially on longer stretches. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Shuttles in Advance
Essential for logistics, especially for point-to-point rides. Book early! 🚌
Check Trail Conditions
Gravel sections can be tough. Stay updated on weather and trail status. ⚠️
Pack for All Weather
NZ weather is unpredictable. Layers are key for comfort. ☁️ :sunwithface:
Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, especially on longer stretches. :droplet:
Camera Ready!
The views are incredible. Don't miss photo ops! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cyclists rave about the breathtaking turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki and the majestic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook. The trail offers a rewarding mix of on-road and off-road cycling. However, some sections of gravel can be challenging and less pleasant for certain bike types.
"We did part of section 2 as an out and back ride, starting at the Salmon Shop on the shores of Lake Pukaki and heading anti-clockwise around the lake. The trail is clearly marked and well set out. The first 8km to the main carpark on Hayman Rd is a gravel track that is undulating and fairly narrow. You have to look out for riders coming the other way. The track then moves onto the road until just after the power station, when it turns to gravel again. It looked like the road had been newly re-gravelled, which made it difficult to ride in and not that pleasant. We pulled in off the road when we saw the sign to a public toilet, thinking there might be a picnic table. This was at approx 17.8km around the lake. There was no picnic table so we sat on a gravel heap to have our lunch, and enjoyed the views of Aoraki Mt. Cook - which can also be seen while on the dunny 😄. We headed back at this point, totalling approx 35.6km and 255m elevation. The views along the way are stunning and the many small rises are just that - no hills as such, and nothing too steep to tackle. All in all, a really nice ride."
Lady Lemon
"We and our tandem bike and panniers got dropped off by Southern Lakes helicopter but the location was a good bit further south than this map location. The dropoff was 11km north of the Jollie River bridge- we had to walk the bike about half that distance because the rocks/gravel/sand road/path was way too rough for our loaded tandem. So those 11km took us about 3 hours. The track from Lake Ohau towards Omarama was even worse for us, had to push almost 17km steep up then down on a super rocky trail. But a nice DOC campsite at the bottom…"
Waverly Rennie
"🇳🇿New Zealand's longest cycling route, the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, starts here. A helicopter transported us and our bikes from the west bank of the river to the east bank! It’s an amazing experience 👍"
Sally Tan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The official start is near the Tekapo Canal. Many cyclists arrange to be dropped off by shuttle or private transport, as it's not a typical drive-up spot. Consider transport options from Tekapo village or nearby towns.
While you can access roads near the start, the actual trailhead might require specific arrangements or shuttle services for a seamless start. Parking can be limited.
Shuttle services are highly recommended for logistics, especially for point-to-point rides. Some companies offer bike transport and luggage transfers.
Yes, the trail is long! Some riders opt for helicopter drops further south for a different starting experience, though this can be rougher terrain initially.
This is where shuttle services or pre-arranged car relocation are crucial. Plan your return journey in advance to avoid issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The trail itself is free to use. There are no entry fees or tickets required for cycling.
The trail is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, daylight hours are best for cycling and enjoying the views.
No booking is required for the trail itself. However, if you plan to use accommodation or shuttle services, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
The trail has multiple access points. The Tekapo start is a popular one, but no booking is needed to begin cycling.
If you plan to camp at designated DOC (Department of Conservation) sites, you may need to book and pay a small fee. Check the DOC website for details.
🎫 🚴 Onsite Experience
The trail is a mix of on-road and off-road sections. Expect gravel tracks, some paved roads, and undulating terrain. Some sections can be rough, especially after rain. +1
The trail is described as beginner-friendly in parts, but its length and varied terrain mean it requires a good level of fitness and preparation. Some sections are more challenging than others.
The views of Lake Pukaki and Aoraki/Mount Cook are spectacular. You'll also encounter diverse landscapes, including glacial lakes and rolling hills.
The full trail is approximately 300km and typically takes 5-7 days to complete. Shorter sections can be ridden as day trips or multi-day adventures.
Yes, there are towns and villages along the route with amenities. DOC campsites and picnic spots are also available.
📸 📸 Photography
The turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki and the majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook are prime subjects. Look for panoramic vistas and unique landscapes along the route. +1
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer hues.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. Consider a telephoto lens for distant mountain shots. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions.
Anywhere with a clear view of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the vibrant blue of Lake Pukaki is a winner. The viewpoints near the Salmon Shop are excellent.
It's challenging but possible with practice and a good camera stabilization system. It's often better to stop at scenic spots for the best shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit