State Forest 70 or SF70 for short lies on the South side of SH5 – The Napier-Taupo Road, and has 1 entry point about 2.5km East of the Rangitaiki Tavern. Once off SH5 the track crosses private land administered by the East Taupo Lands Trust before arriving at the DOC Rangitaiki Conservation Area.
Once into the State Forest 70- The Rangitaiki Conservation Area there is a huge area with something for everyone, from open flat sections through to tight technical areas, through a variety of terrain.
Tracks in SF70 are maintained by local 4wd clubs but the area has been subject to abuse by non club 4wd’s and trail bikes blazing through bush areas and generally wreaking havoc to areas of critically endangered plant species, along with locals dumping stolen vehicles. Always stick the defined formed tracks as continued abuse with result in all vehicles being banned.
The GPS track below shows access points and a large loop around State Forest 70, however there are formed tracks running off this main track everywhere so there’s plenty to play on.
Contributed by: @brainflex
Track type: Dirt Track
Track composition: Bumpy, Loose, Steep
Slippery when wet?: Yes
Suitable for bikes > 650cc Beginner
Suitable for bikes < 650cc Experienced
River crossings? No
Completed the loop last weekend (20th May 23) The far east end hill climb is pretty messy at the moment. Enduro/mx bikes okay but if your on a dual sport/ ADV bike you may few mates to help push. There are some pretty big wash out holes along the way so caution required.
cool stuff
im going to do state forrest 70 22nd – 24th march. also going to have a look at the kaimanawa wall during same weekend. hit me up if keen. if i can figure out how to share my location, ill do that. cheers david
Hi all, how would this be for a solo rider on a 1200GS? Looking at heading this way Dec 30.
To answer my question. Yes. This old fat man was able to enjoy the tracks, stunning scenery and what a great resource to have access to.