The best cycling routes around Woodville

There are 14 touring cycling routes around Woodville, offering a variety of experiences from moderate to difficult. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars.

The terrain around Woodville is diverse, featuring gentle river valleys, extensive native bush, and impressive wind farms like the Te Āpiti Wind Farm. You'll encounter quiet roads, dedicated cycleways, and gravel tracks, with varying elevation changes as you traverse areas like the dramatic Manawatu Gorge and the foothills of the Tararua and Ruahine Ranges.

Yes, the region is known for its wind farms. For an up-close experience with magnificent scenic views of the Te Āpiti - Manawatū Gorge, Ashhurst, Woodville, and Palmerston North city, consider the 41km Wind Farm Mountain Bike Ride, which is primarily a gravel road trail.

Cyclists can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Manawatu Gorge, especially from the Te Ahu a Turanga Shared User Path, which includes a lookout 30 meters above the Manawatu River. Other points of interest in the wider area include the Moira Furnace and Canal, Staunton Harold Reservoir, and the Deer Park at Calke Abbey.

For those seeking a longer challenge, the Moira Furnace – National Memorial Arboretum loop from Woodville is a moderate 58.0 km route with significant elevation gain, typically taking over 3.5 hours to complete. Another option is the Washlands and River Trent – Golf Course View loop from Swadlincote, which is 45.3 km long.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Woodville are designed as loops. For example, the popular Moira Furnace – Hicks Lodge Trail loop from Woodville is a 33.4 km circular route, and the Hicks Lodge Trail – Moira Furnace loop from Woodville offers a 37.1 km ride through varied terrain.

Woodville's diverse landscapes can be enjoyed throughout the year. However, for the most comfortable touring cycling experience, spring and autumn generally offer milder temperatures and pleasant conditions. Summer can be warm, while winter may bring cooler weather, especially in higher elevations like the Tararua and Ruahine Ranges.

While the listed routes are generally moderate to difficult, the region offers some easier paths suitable for families. The Te Ahu a Turanga Shared User Path, though not explicitly listed as easy in the guide data, is a dedicated path through the Manawatu Gorge that provides breathtaking views and is generally accessible. For very easy, flat options, consider trails like the Lake Henrietta via Tallahassee-Saint Marks Historic Railroad State Trail mentioned in regional research.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from river valleys to native bush and wind farm views, as well as the variety of routes that cater to different skill levels, combining natural trails with historical points of interest.

Absolutely! Beyond cycling, Woodville is a hub for various outdoor pursuits. You can explore hiking trails like the Manawatu Gorge Track, enjoy water activities such as swimming and kayaking at the Ferry Reserve on the Manawatu River, or even try horse trekking through the rolling farmland and bush tracks with views of the Tararua Ranges.

While not directly on the listed touring cycling routes, the wider Woodville area features several beautiful water bodies. You can find the Staunton Harold Reservoir and Melbourne Pool nearby, which are popular spots for recreation and offer scenic views.