Most sections of the A2O trail are brilliant for families with young children but a couple of sections are rough and unsuitable. For a 1 or 2-day ride we recommend the trail from the bottom of Lake Pukaki (at the bottom of Tekapo B Power Station) to Twizel, and then from Twizel to Lake Ohau, as the two best parts because the trail sections are relatively smooth and flat, the views of the mountains are amazing, and there are nice spots around the lake edge ideal for a picnic.
Cycling the entire A2O trail with young children will be an enjoyable and memorable experience but a few sections are not suitable for small wheel kids bikes, towing attachments, or childs seats. The part from Tasman Point to Jollie River carpark can be rough due to its exposure to weather conditions and the top part of Hayman Road to Braemar Road can be heavily corrugated from trucks that access this area.
Additionally, from Lake Ohau Lodge over the Tarnbrae Highpoint into Qualiburn is another area that is exposed and therefore the trail surface can be bumpy and rocky. Our kids bikes (with the exception of the 24” bikes) are not available for hire on these sections.
For families with young children we recommend starting the A2O trail from either Lake Pukaki at the bottom of Tekapo B Power Station or from Lake Tekapo Village. For the section from Lake Ohau to Quailburn we can provide a shuttle service that bypasses the rough trail section and allows you to enjoy the smoother second half in to Omarama.
