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Off-lead OKEasy

Upper Waikato River Trail

Taupō · Waikato

↑ 20 m gain↓ 36 m descenthigh 386 msteepest 371 %
DISTANCE1.6 km
ASCENT20 m
DURATION21m
STEEPEST371 %
DirectionsApple MapsForecast at the trailheadDownload GPXSend the start point to your phone
Nearest emergency vetBay After Hours Veterinary Hospital (BAHVET), Tauranga~120 min drive · after-hours (nights+weekends)
07 220 9775
The route

Good to know

Dogs can run off-lead here, one of only 323 tracks in Aotearoa where that’s allowed.

Open track, carry water for the dogUsually a quiet track

About Upper Waikato River Trail

Upper Waikato River Trail covers 1.6 km, near Taupō in Waikato, walked as a track.

A short, easy riverside walking track following the upper reaches of the Waikato River near Taupō, where the river flows out of Lake Taupō.

Graded easy, it climbs about 20 m overall, pitching up to 371 % at its steepest, and takes about 21m to walk.

Dogs are allowed off the lead on this one.

Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Can my dog go off the lead on Upper Waikato River Trail?

Yes. Upper Waikato River Trail is one of only 323 tracks in New Zealand where dogs can legally run off the lead. Check for seasonal wildlife closures before you unclip.

How long is Upper Waikato River Trail?

Upper Waikato River Trail is 1.6 km with roughly 20 m of climb and takes about 21m.

Where dogs are welcome in NZGear checklist for dog hikes

Hikes nearby

The closest dog-friendly tracks to this trailhead, by straight-line distance.

Huka Falls from Loop Road

EasyTaupo
1.8 km↑36 m0.5–1 hr★4.4 rating
Swim spotShade

Huka Falls Loop

EasyTaupo
0.8 km↑26 m0.5–1 hr★4.4 rating
Swim spotShadeGood with kids

More in Waikato

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