THE BEST DAY RIDES ON THE GREAT RIDE TRAILS
Ātiamuri Bridge to Mangakino, Waikato River Trails, Waikato 38km, 3-6hr
River views predominate on this section of mostly downhill, narrow track through open reserves, pine and native forest. The picturesque trail follows the river, with solitary, distant Pohaturoa Rock rising 200m, seen near the start; boards relate its geology and Māori heritage.
Later, white cliffs interrupt the rolling farmland beyond the river’s far side. Whakamaru Dam, where water lies placid on one side and flows northwards through a far-below valley on the other, and a
