THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Ride 40 kilometers of dramatic high-country and river landscapes with River Valley Ventures’ Big Backcountry Ride. Pedal electric-assist e-bikes from the Gentle Annie summit back to lodge with scenic breaks and optional swims.
Ride 40 kilometers of dramatic high-country and river landscapes with River Valley Ventures’ Big Backcountry Ride. Pedal electric-assist e-bikes from the Gentle Annie summit back to lodge with scenic breaks and optional swims.
Book with River Valley Ventures
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by River Valley Ventures · Taihape, Manawatū-Whanganui
Set against the raw, expansive landscapes of New Zealand’s Manawatū-Whanganui region, River Valley Ventures offers a standout adventure with The Big Backcountry Ride—a full-day, 40-kilometer e-bike journey rolling from the high country down to the comfort of River Valley Lodge. Starting atop the famous Gentle Annie on the Napier–Taihape Road, riders are immediately treated to sweeping views of Mt. Ruapehu and the rugged Otupae and Ruahine Ranges, setting an elevated tone for the day.
This route winds through the vast pastoral stations of Otupae and Mangaohane, lands steeped in farming heritage and open space, before descending to the Rangitikei River crossing at Mangaohane Bridge. Here, on warmer days, a refreshing river swim is an inviting reward, offering an authentic way to cool off amid nature’s tranquility. The varied terrain includes long stretches of exhilarating downhill rides paired with a handful of steady climbs—perfectly suited to e-bikes that amplify your pedaling power while maintaining ease and stability.
River Valley Ventures equips riders with a choice of well-maintained e-bikes ranging from step-through frames to mountain-bike styles, accommodating riders of different preferences and sizes. Their operation is deeply connected to the local landscape, offering shuttle services and optional picnic lunches that elevate a simple ride to a carefully curated outdoor experience.
What sets this trip apart in the Taihape area is its seamless blend of high-country grandeur and gentle riverside charm, accessible through electric pedal-assist that lets you focus on the scenery and your ride’s rhythm. River Valley Ventures plays an important role in the local outdoor scene by providing an eco-conscious way to experience terrain that’s otherwise challenging for many, making high-adventure backcountry more approachable. Whether you’re chasing big views, crisp river air, or a day of active immersion in New Zealand’s wide-open spaces, The Big Backcountry Ride hooks you into a distinct slice of wild that’s rarely so smoothly delivered.
moderate.
6–8 hours.
Participants should have moderate fitness; the e-bike assists help manage climbs but expect a full day of activity.
No previous e-bike experience is required; River Valley Ventures provides guidance and the bikes are easy to handle.
Yes, the electric assist makes this ride accessible to novices with moderate fitness.
Trips may be rescheduled in case of severe weather; check with River Valley Ventures for updates.
This trip is designed specifically for the included e-bikes to handle the terrain and distance.
Yes, helmets are provided, but you may bring your own for comfort.
A picnic lunch can be added when booking for a convenient and satisfying mid-ride break.
Gentle Annie Road, the start point, is a historic mountain pass known for its challenging drive and scenic outlooks.
River Valley Ventures promotes low-impact travel by using e-bikes to reduce carbon emissions and preserve sensitive backcountry areas.
River Valley Ventures operates from Taihape in the Manawatū-Whanganui region and specialises in adventure tourism and lodge accommodation. The business runs multi-day and day experiences centred on the Rangitikei River and surrounding high country, combining guided river trips, white water rafting, inflatable kayaking, guided horse riding holidays, e-biking and fishing options. Accommodation at River Valley Lodge includes private ensuite guest rooms, garden and riverside rooms, family rooms with bunks, bunk-room dormitory options and converted bus accommodation, all with access to communal facilities, farm-to-table meals and spa amenities. River Valley Ventures offers grade 5 white water rafting, scenic rafting excursions, full-day family river trips and extended river adventures such as multi-day canyon and Whanganui River dory journeys. Horse riding experiences include an eight-day River Valley Ride aimed at intermediate and advanced riders. E-bike options include full-day hires, guided backcountry rides and stay-and-ride packages. The operation emphasises small-group experiences, selected Maori cultural immersion on some trips, and professional guides trained for river safety and remote-scenario management. Booking options feature stay-and-play packages that combine accommodation, meals and guided activities for streamlined planning. Safety briefings, quality gear hire and clear local logistics support every booking and trip.
Book with River Valley Ventures