Skip to main content

Otago's Signature Tracks

Queenstown's All Time Greats

Edgar Bridge, Queenstown Trails
Brook Sabin

Inspiration Otago's Signature Tracks

A collection of these bike tracks were recently photographed and filmed by Brook Sabin, one of NZ’s most popular travel writers and multimedia journalists. So, if you’re looking for a half-day ride in Queenstown, then look no further than these signature tracks beautifully filmed and photographed by Brook.

There are numerous companies offering bike hire (including e-bikes) and shuttle services so it’s easy to book and explore Queenstown by bike.

Queenstown Trails Map

All rides should start with coffee...and sticky buns from Provisions if you're in Arrowtown!

Iconic Queenstown scenery on the Arrow River Bridges Trail.

Arrow River Bridges Trail

13km one way, allow 3hours for Arrowtown to Kawarau Suspension Bridge return.

Begin in Arrowtown with a coffee (the sticky buns at Provisions are sensational) and once fully caffeinated follow the Arrow River downstream from the car park on Buckingham Street on the true right of the river. The trail is easy, suitable for all abilities and well signposted. After a short distance riding under the shade of the willow trees, cross Tobins Bridge onto the true left of the river.

There’s a reason it’s called the bridges trail as there are a series of seriously impressive suspension bridges which make great photo opportunities - the Southern Discoveries Bridge, the Edgar Bridge and the Kawarau Suspension Bridge – home to AJ Hackett Bungy.

Once you reach the “bungy” bridge - where there’s a great viewing platform and café to watch the adrenaline-fuelled jumpers - retrace your route back to Arrowtown where there are lots of great options for lunch. Or, continue along the Gibbston River Trail for lunch at a winery (see below).

The Gibbston River Trail combines spectacular mountain sceney....

...with wineries and vineyards (Gibbston Valley Winery).

Gibbston River Trail

From the historic Kawarau Suspension Bridge which dates back to the 1880s, the easy, grade 1 trail initially follows the river terrace above the rapids of the Kawarau River and then enters Gibbston - known as the valley of the vines.

Unsurprisingly, it’s the multitude of wineries, cellar doors and restaurants that are the main attraction of this trail – although the mountain scenery is also dramatic!

At just over 8km long, the Gibbston Trail only takes an hour or so to ride (one way), but with plenty of stops for food and wine tasting along the way it’s easy to spend half a day on the trail.

Many bike tour operators in Queenstown offer day packages that include the Arrow River Bridges Trail and Gibbston River Trail, with transfers available from the end of the trail.

NOTE: some of the wineries require crossing the busy main road, so please take extra care.

Watch: Queenstown's wine trail

Wine tasting at Gibbston Valley Winery's famous wine cave.

Mt Edward Winery, a short detour from the trial is well worth a visit.

Mt Rosa Winery, great views and great food.

A fine ride deserves fine food afterwards as reward... Swiftsure Restaurant in Arrowtown.

Shotover Gorge Trail

Queenstown Trails’ latest addition is the impressive Shotover Gorge Trail. A critical piece of trail infrastructure which has improved connectivity across the network.

The Shotover Gorge Trail can be ridden as an out and back ride from Arthur’s Point or as part of a longer day ride on a loop which includes Arrowtown and the Wharehuanui Trail.

The trail, whilst short (6km) packs a big punch on the scenery stakes with the impressive Hugo Tunnel and the Kimi-ākau swing bridge its major attractions.  As a grade 3 trail its more technically challenging than some of the other Queenstown routes and includes a short grade 4 section at the Hugo Tunnel. Less experienced riders should consider easier, less technical trails.

Kick off your ride with a coffee at Gantley's Tavern in Arthur’s Point and then follow the trail for 6km (approx. 90mins) to Tucker Beach and the Kimi-ākau bridge. From here you can either continue to the Old Lower Shotover Bridge on the Tucker Beach Trail (another 4km) or turn around and head back to Arthur’s Point for a pizza and beer (Canyon Brewing and Rakau both do awesome pizzas).

Trailside accommodation - The Ferry B&B

Originally build for goldmining, the Hugo Tunnel is now for cyclists and walkers.

The Shotover Gorge Trail includes technical grade 4 riding.

The Old Shotover Bridge on the Tucker Beach Trail with views of the Remarkable Mountains

Trailside treat - The Ferry B&B is right on the cycle trails.

A quintessential Queenstown adventure.... mountains, bike trails and jet boating....

Related Stories

Go back to all articles