Forest Road

Forest Road offers 4WD enthusiasts a chance to explore the remote backcountry of the Rotorua Lakes District while navigating authentic native forest terrain. This unrated trail presents an off-the-beaten-path driving experience where you'll encounter natural obstacles and varied ground conditions that test your vehicle's capabilities and your driving skills in a relatively compact route.

You'll find yourself immersed in dense native forest as you progress along this 1.0 km trail, with towering trees creating a canopy overhead and earthy forest floor beneath your tyres. The scenery is quintessentially New Zealand bush country, offering a stark contrast to the well-maintained tracks found elsewhere in the region. The terrain demands your full attention—uneven surfaces, potential ruts, and natural forest debris require careful line selection and steady vehicle control to navigate successfully.

Before tackling Forest Road, ensure your 4WD is in excellent mechanical condition and equipped with recovery gear. The remote nature of this trail means help may not be immediately available, so consider carrying a communication device and informing someone of your intended route. Check current conditions before heading out, as forest tracks can change seasonally and may be affected by recent weather. This trail rewards prepared, experienced drivers who respect the wilderness environment and drive with caution and respect for the landscape.