Mountain biking in Naseby Forest
Naseby Forest has a well established network of signposted mountain bike trails, forest roads and shared tracks. You will find options for gentle family rides through the trees as well as more technical single track for confident riders. Naseby Forest offers around 52 km of marked mountain bike trails, with a total of more than 100 km of trails available in the wider recreation area.
- Flowing single track for riders who enjoy more technical terrain
- Wider, undulating forest roads and double track for relaxed rides
- Cool, shaded riding under the trees in summer
These links are useful when planning your rides:
Conditions and access can change with weather and forestry operations, so always check local updates and any temporary closures before you set out.
Otago Central Rail Trail
The Otago Central Rail Trail is New Zealand's original Great Ride, following the line of the former Otago Central Railway from Clyde to Middlemarch. It is a wide, well graded off-road cycle trail suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
Naseby sits only a short detour from the Rail Trail near Ranfurly. Many riders choose to spend a night or two here partway through their trip, enjoying the cooler forest setting, a different atmosphere from the busier trail towns and a comfortable night's rest before continuing their ride.
You can ride selected sections of the trail in either direction from nearby access points and use local operators for shuttles, luggage transfers and bike hire. Naseby also works well as a gentle pause in the middle of a multi-day Rail Trail itinerary or as a base for day rides on chosen sections.
- Stay in Naseby while riding selected sections in both directions
- Use local operators for shuttles, luggage transfers and bike hire
- Enjoy a peaceful overnight stop away from the busier Rail Trail towns
Learn more on the official site: Otago Central Rail Trail.
Exploring Naseby by e-bike or gravel bike
Naseby and the wider Maniototo are ideal for e-bike and gravel riding. Quiet roads, long sightlines and generally low traffic levels make it easy to enjoy relaxed rides at your own pace, without needing to push for big distances.
From town you can create simple loop rides that combine sealed backroads and smooth gravel, or link sections of the Rail Trail with side trips into the hills. Local bike-hire and shuttle businesses can help you choose a loop that matches your fitness and experience, while Naseby's quiet setting gives you space to unwind at the end of the day.
Guests have access to secure e-bike charging on-site (in our lockable shed), making it straightforward to plan multi-day riding with one comfortable base.
How long to stay for riding
For a biking-focused visit, 2 to 3 nights in Naseby is an ideal starting point. It gives you time to ride Naseby Forest, add a day or two on the Rail Trail and still keep one morning or afternoon flexible for a shorter spin or a complete rest.
Example stay:
Day 1: Arrive, check in and head out for an afternoon ride in Naseby Forest to get a feel for the trails, then enjoy dinner in town.
Day 2: Ride a full day on a chosen section of the Otago Central Rail Trail using local shuttles for access. Return to a hot shower and a quiet evening at the apartments.
Day 3: Choose between another forest ride, an easier gravel loop in the Maniototo or a slower day exploring town and resting your legs before the next part of your trip.
If you have more time, adding an extra night makes it easier to work around weather windows, explore more of the forest network or add a second Rail Trail section without rushing.
Explore more activities
Riding is only one part of what makes Naseby special. When you're off the bike, you can explore the forest at a slower pace, enjoy family-friendly activities, unwind on a quiet couples’ escape or experience some of New Zealand's clearest night skies. Each theme has its own short guide:
See all themes on the main Things to do in Naseby page.
Ready to plan your riding adventure?
Naseby gives you access to a mix of forest trails, Rail Trail sections and quiet gravel roads, all from one small alpine town. Booking a warm, fully equipped apartment for two or more nights makes it easier to shape each day around the weather, your legs and what sort of ride you feel like.