Is the Timber Trail the right ride for you?
Timber Trail Grade 3
Trail Grade: Grade 3 (Intermediate)
The trail offers a rewarding backcountry adventure for reasonably fit and capable riders who are comfortable riding for several hours a day. While not a beginner trail, it delivers an outstanding journey through native forest, rich history, and spectacular landscapes.
What to Expect
The trail is a mix of well-graded single track and gravel forest roads, with:
Sustained climbs requiring steady effort and good fitness
Free-flowing descents where confident bike handling is important
A variety of surfaces, keeping the ride engaging throughout
Riders should be comfortable managing their bike on uneven terrain and pacing themselves over longer distances.
Trail Conditions
Off-road sections may include narrow trails, hills, exposed edges, and natural obstacles such as roots or rocks
Surfaces are generally firm but can be muddy or loose, depending on weather
Some sections use quiet gravel roads with occasional vehicle traffic and loose surfaces
Bikes & Suitability
A mountain bike with knobbly tyres is strongly recommended; gravel bikes may suit experienced riders
E-mountain bikes are suitable with adequate battery range and rider capability
Road bikes and racing tyres are not suitable
Best suited to intermediate riders with a reasonable level of fitness. Children should be accompanied by an adult, and riders should be prepared for changing conditions and remote environments.
The trail may be ridden all year around however riders should check the weather forecast and plan accordingly (packing extra waterproof and warm gear in the Winter)
Is this Trail Right for me?
✔ You’re a reasonably fit, intermediate rider
✔ You’re comfortable riding for several hours per day
✔ You enjoy a mix of single track and gravel forest roads
✔ You’re happy tackling sustained climbs and flowing descents
✔ You’re confident riding on changing surfaces (gravel, roots, mud)
✖ This trail is not ideal for beginners or road bikes
✖ You may struggle if you’re uncomfortable with hills, uneven terrain, or remote settings
Best suited to riders seeking a true backcountry adventure. Children should be accompanied by an adult.
New Zealand Wide Trail Grades
To help you choose the right ride for your fitness and ability, all sections of New Zealand Cycle Trail are graded in accordance with the following system, also in common across NZ. More detail on Nga Haerenga - NZ Cycle Trail Grades.
We encourage you to know your limits, and choose a trail that’s suitable for all riders in your group. For more information read Riding Safely on the New Zealand Cycle Trail.
Grade 3 (Intermediate)
Suitable for regular experienced cyclists with a good level of fitness and over 12 years old; children should be accompanied by an adult.
A mountain bike is recommended for off-road sections.
E-mountain bikes are suitable provided they are ridden appropriately, have sufficient battery capacity, and the rider is capable of completing the trail in the event of a battery/power failure.
For on-road trails/sections on gravel roads, bikes with knobbly tyres are recommended. Road racing tyres are generally not suitable.
Off-road trails can be narrow and may include hills, steep drop-offs and small river crossings. Trail surfaces are mainly firm but may include muddy or loose sections, and obstacles such as rocks or tree roots.
On-road trails/sections may have moderate traffic levels (up to 1000 vehicles a day), and include hill climbs and gravel sections.
Note: all Heartland Rides are grade 3 or above.
Grade 2 (Easy)
Suitable for most riders including beginners, occasional cyclists and families with limited cycling experience.
A multi-geared bike with medium to wide knobbly tyres is recommended, such as a comfort bike, touring bike or mountain bike.
E-bikes are also suitable as long as they are ridden appropriately and have sufficient battery capacity.
Off-road trails are usually wide and smooth (firm gravel or sealed), with some gentle climbs. These trails are predictable, i.e. have no nasty surprises. On-road sections of Great Rides generally follow quiet roads with little traffic.
