Heli-Biking in Kaimanawa Forest Park with Kaimanawa Alpine Adventures & FourB: The Ultimate Backcountry Ride
New Zealand is home to some of the most breathtaking and remote mountain bike trails in the world, but nothing quite compares to the thrill of heli-biking. Recently, I had the chance to experience an unforgettable heli-biking adventure in Kaimanawa Forest Park, an untouched wilderness that provided the perfect mix of adrenaline, solitude, and jaw-dropping scenery.
The Journey Begins
The adventure kicked off midday due to low-lying cloud cover hindering our landing site and obscuring the views. The sound of the helicopter echoed around us as we prepared for liftoff into the heart of Kaimanawa. As we soared over the forest canopy, the vastness of the park unfolded beneath us—rolling ridges, deep valleys, and dense native bush stretching as far as the eye could see. The excitement built as we approached our remote drop-off point, where the only way back was via the rugged, twisting trails.
The Ride of a Lifetime
Touching down on an alpine ridgeline, we unloaded our bikes and took a moment to soak in the surreal surroundings. The crisp mountain air and absolute silence set the stage for an epic descent. The ride started with a flowy, high-altitude section, with some climbing allowing us to warm up before dropping into more technical terrain. Loose scree-laced singletrack and natural switchbacks made every meter a thrilling challenge.
One of the highlights was navigating the ridgeline trails, where one wrong move could mean a steep tumble down the mountainside. But the reward? Panoramic views that stretched all the way to Lake Taupō. Every turn revealed something new, with the majestic mountains briefly appearing before the cloud cover rolled back in.
Why You Should Try Heli-Biking
If you’re an experienced rider looking to push your limits, heli-biking in Kaimanawa Forest Park is an absolute must. The combination of untouched trails, raw adventure, and the sheer remoteness of the experience makes it unlike any other ride. I'm an experienced mountain biker, and this trail kept me on my toes.
Final Thoughts
As we rolled back to civilization, covered in mud and grinning ear to ear, I knew this was a ride I’d never forget. Kaimanawa Forest Park delivered everything I could have hoped for—thrills, challenges, and a deep appreciation for New Zealand’s wild beauty.
So, if you ever get the chance to drop into the backcountry from a helicopter with your bike, take it. It’s a ride unlike any other.
