The Great Ride - 4 Days
New Zealand's Most Popular Great Ride!
130km
4 days
Grade
Easy to Intermediate (Grade 2-4)
Explore the beautiful Queenstown Trail over 4 days. Cycle over 130kms on off-road trails set in alpine grandeur. The trail takes you from Queenstown to Gibbston via Arrowtown. You’ll take in lakes and mountains, winding rivers, historic buildings and plenty of bridges, wine tasting, fine food and as much coffee and cake as you wish. Experience a different (quieter) side to Queenstown.
Queenstown Gardens
The Queenstown Gardens Te Kararo marks the official start of the Queenstown Great Ride. Frankton Track starts on Marine Parade, following the shoreline of Lake Whakatipu. Spot the Lady of the Lake TSS Earnslaw as she steams in or out of harbor, and enjoy expansive views of the surrounding peaks. The Queenstown Gardens are tranquil and well worth exploring year round.
Frankton Arm
Frankton Track meanders beside Frankton Arm between Queenstown and Frankton Beach. There are several picnic and paddling spots beside the trail, and several linking pathways to provide access to Frankton Road and Queenstown Hill.
Frankton Marina
Frankton Marina is home to restaurants, cafes and a brewery. Frankton Marina is a great place to stop for a rest or refreshments.
Frankton Beach
Frankton Beach is a gorgeous picnic and swimming spot, equipped with BBQ, Toilets and shelter. Follow the beach around to the Kawarau Falls Bridge and the start of the Twin Rivers Trail, or head into Frankton for shops, food and public transport options.
Kawarau Falls Bridge
The Kawarau Falls Bridge is actually a dam. Completed in 1926, the structure is located at the head of the Kawarau River where it arises at the outlet of Lake Wakatipu .The dam was designed to dewater the riverbed down the Kawarau River so that a treasure trove of gold supposedly located in the bed could be recovered.
Kelvin Grove
Kelvin Grove offers sunny sheltered beaches, picnic spots, swimming areas and play grounds. A gorgeous spot for family fun, and popular with swimmers and boaties in summer.
Sculpture Trail
Circumnavigating the Kelvin Heights Golf Course, this trail rewards with impressive views, hidden beaches and a series of impressive art installations. This is a great loop for families to enjoy.
Jardine Park
Marking the end of the Kelvin Peninsula Trail and the beginning of the Jacks Point Trail, Jardine Park is a hidden gem on Kelvin Peninsula. Jardine Park includes a flying fox, playground, sports courts, walking and biking trails. Jardine Park includes beautiful conservation plantings of natives.
Terry's Cove
Terry’s Cove, named after the Queenstown Trails Trust’s founding Chairman, Terry Stevens. Terry’s Cove makes a wonderful stop to soak up the views of Cecil and Walter Peak on the other side of the lake Wakatipu.
Jardine Park
The Jacks Point Trail can be started from either end. There is plenty of parking at Jardine Park/Kelvin Peninsula, and at Jacks Point. Jardine Park has great beginner trails for those learning to ride and a wee kids pump track. You'll also find toilets, a kids playground, tennis course and the Jean Malpas Community Nursery.
Epic views
The trail traverses above the shoreline between Kelvin Heights and Jacks Point, offering superb lake and mountain views at every turn.
Epic Terrain
The trail is considered an advanced (grade 4) trail due to its tight corners and steep pitches, however it really is worth the ride. Just be sure to take it easy and go slow, pushing your bike when you need to.
Take a Breath and soak up the view
Cradled in mountains! To the west, the Eyre Mountains: Cecil Peak, Walter Peak and the Bayonet Peaks. To the north, Queenstown is nestled under Ben Lomond, Te Taumata-o-Hakitekura. Further around the horizon are Coronet and Brow Peak's. To the east, the towering and dominant Remarkables, Kawarau.
Jack's Point & Hanley Farm
As the southern corridor suburbs continue to expand, a plethora of cafes, shops and restaurants are popping up throughout Jacks Point and Hanley Farm. Coffee, lunch, snacks and supplies - you can find it all here.
Kawarau Falls Bridge
The Twin Rivers Trail begins at the Kawarau Falls Bridge. The Kawarau Falls Bridge is actually a dam. Completed in 1926, the structure is located at the head of the Kawarau River where it arises at the outlet of Lake Wakatipu .The dam was designed to dewater the riverbed down the Kawarau River so that a treasure trove of gold supposedly located in the bed could be recovered.
Kawarau Falls Link
Directly after the underpass of the Kawarau Falls Bridge, the Twin Rivers Trail turns right and heads up the hill to Robertson Street. There is an option to continue straight ahead onto the Twin Rivers Link - this section includes steep sections, and narrow, undulating trail.
Old Lower Shotover Bridge
Dating back to 1871, and rebuilt in 1915, this restored historic bridge is located at a major junction of the Queenstown Trails network. Enjoy panoramic views of the Kimi-ākau Shotover River and surrounding ranges, especially The Remarkable's and Coronet Peak.
Shotover Country & Lake Hayes Estate
The Twin Rivers Trail follows the Kimi-ākau Shotover and Kawarau River's around the perimeter of the eastern suburbs: Shotover Country and Lake Hayes Estates. Both suburbs have playgrounds, restaurants, cafes, shops and toilets.
Old MacDonald's Hill
The first hill of the Twin Rivers Trail, Old MacDonalds Hill offers a steady climb and descent in both directions. There are great views of the Kawarau River and the flanks of The Remarkable's, as well as an excellent vantage point to watch planes making their final descent to land at Queenstown Airport.
Thompsons Hill
Thompsons Hill is the third, and longest climb on the Twin Rivers Trail. The views from the top are very worth the effort to get there. Pace yourself up the climb, and keep your speed in check when you're heading down.
Trail Head
The Twin Rivers Trail ends at Morven Ferry Road, where it intersects with the Arrow River Bridges Trail. From here, carry on to Gibbston or Arrowtown.
The Middle Hill
Past Lake Hayes Estate, cross Billie's Bridge over Hayes Creek, and begin the second decent climb of the Twin Rivers Trail. The Middle Hill is a longer climb than Old MacDonald Hill, and a large land slip that came down in 2024, still partially blocks the trail. There is a safe route across the slip, but please dismount your bike and walk if you don't feel confident to ride across.
Sharp Rise
You will encounter Sharp Rise as the Countryside Trail heads out of Millbrook towards Lake Hayes. The descent offers great views towards the Remarkable's. Sharp Rise has a steeper gradient, so be sure to control your speed heading down, and be prepared for a bit of effort on the climb - some riders prefer to enjoy the climb up Sharp Rise as a walk.
Millbrook Resort
The Countryside Trail winds through the manicured grounds of the five-star golf and lifestyle resort. Boasting luxurious accommodation, an award-winning day spa, restaurants and two 18-hole golf courses. Millbrook is a destination in itself.
Old Lower Shotover Bridge
The Old Lower Shotover Bridge dates back to 1915, and was restored by the Rotary Club of Queenstown in 2004. The Old Lower Shotover Bridge forms an iconic part of the Queenstown Trail - this is the trail head for the Countryside Trail, and the Tucker Beach Trail. The Twin Rivers Trail passes across the bridge.
Autumn in Arrowtown
Autumn in Arrowtown is truly spectacular! The surrounding hills and the township are filled with vibrant reds, oranges and yellows. The iconic Arrowtown Autumn Festival, held in April, showcases the food, wine, art, culture and history of Arrowtown.
Historic Arrowtown
Arrowtown (Kā-Muriwai) is a charming gold-mining town, steeped in history. Enjoy a pre-ride coffee, breakfast or snack at one of the excellent cafes in Arrowtown. The Lakes District Museum, Historic Arrowtown and the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement are fascinating and well worth exploring to learn more about the history and culture of the region.
Lake Hayes
The Lake Hayes Trail joins the Countryside Trail at Rutherford Road. The Lake Hayes Trail (Waiwhakaata) is a stunning 8km scenic loop around the Lake.
Wharehuanui Trail
The Wharehuanui Trail, connecting Arrowtown to Arthurs Point, branches off from the Countryside Trail at Streamside Lane in Millbrook.
Slope Hill
The Countryside Trail passes the incredible landscape scale restoration of Slope Hill where more than 20,000 native trees have been planted by the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust. Past the Slope Hill Reserve, the Countryside Trail continues over Slope Hill - a decent climb, with some steeper sections, pace yourself and share the road with care.
Views galore
Stroll, walk, run or cycle around a lake surrounded by spectacular mountains. The reflective lake offers panoramic, picturesque views of the surrounding mountains, and is particularly lovely at sunrise and sunset.
Environmental Restoration
Lake Hayes, and its catchment, is undergoing an intensive native biodiversity restoration project thanks to ORC, Kāi Tahu representatives, QLDC, DoC, and Friends of Lake Hayes. Mana Tāhuna Charitable Trust has undertaken restoration work: removing exotic and invasive vegetation and planting close to 140k native plants within the catchment.
West Side
The western side of the Waiwhakaata Lake Hayes Trail climbs to traverse the side of Slope Hill. Great for morning sunshine, views of Bendemeer, and for watching the rowers and kayakers training on the lake.
Marathon Moment
Waiwhakaata Lake Hayes Trail is a very popular destination for runners and walkers -the world famous Queenstown Marathon takes in a lap of Lake Hayes just before reaching the half way point of the course. Expect to see plenty of people enjoying the trail on foot.
Arrow River
The Arrow River Bridges trail undulates along the banks of the tranquil, willow-lined Arrow River. In summer, enjoy a paddle at one of the popular swimming spots. In winter, the Arrow River plunges into perma-frost, be sure to wrap up super warm!
Southern Discoveries Bridge
The Southern Discoveries Suspension Bridge, the closest suspension bridge to Arrowtown on the Arrow River Bridges Trail. Opened in 2012 as part of the original Queenstown Trails alignment, the Southern Discoveries Bridge is one of the best spots to enjoy the Autumn colors.
Swain Bridge
The Swain Family Bridge crosses the Arrow River - a great picnic spot and a perfect place for enjoying the peace and quiet.
Edgar Bridge
The graceful 80m Edgar Suspension Bridge seems to float in mid-air over the dramatic Arrow Gorge. The bridge is named after Sir Eion and Lady Edgar. Sir Eion was a prominent New Zealand philanthropist and a keen supporter of Queenstown Trails.
Wall of Recognition
Be sure to stop at the Wall of Recognition and offer up a 'thanks' to the landowners and the Queenstown community who had the vision to help make the Queenstown Trail a reality.If you've ridden the trail and love it, please consider supporting us with a donation.
Donate
Kawarau Suspension Bridge
Dating back to 1880, the Kawarau Suspension Bridge was an innovative design, that faced significant engineering and construction challenges due to the steep rocky nature of the gorge, and the fast flowing Kawarau River. The new road bridge opened in the 1960s, and AJ Hackett commenced their bungy operation from the historic bridge in 1988.
Tobins Bridge
The first bridge on the Arrow River Bridges Trail is Tobin's Bridge. Tobin's Track - a steep walk/ride to the Crown Terrace heads up the hill. The Arrow River Bridges Trail continues along the true left bank of the Arrow River.
Knights Family Bridge
Tucked under the road bridge near Arrow Junction, the Knights Family Bridge provides glimpses into the upper section of the Arrow River Gorge
Barfoot Tunnel
The Barfoot Tunnel provides safe passage beneath the State Highway. Generously funded by Garth and Judy Barfoot, the Barfoot Tunnel forms a gateway to Gibbston.
Kawarau Suspension Bridge
Dating back to 1880, the Kawarau Suspension Bridge was an innovative design, that faced significant engineering and construction challenges due to the steep rocky nature of the gorge, and the fast flowing Kawarau River. The new road bridge opened in the 1960s, and AJ Hackett commenced their bungy operation from the historic bridge in 1988.
Valley of the Vines
Gibbston: The Valley of the Vines is nestled into the foot hills of the surrounding ranges. Swathed in neat rows of vines, with the wild Kawarau River flowing at its core, Gibbston is a breathtaking landscape to explore by bike.
The mighty Kawarau River
Kawarau translates to "channel between rocks". Winding spectacularly amongst dramatic cliffs, luminously green in sunshine, or muddy and churning in flood, the Kawarau River carves its way through the heart of Gibbston on its way to the Gorge. The Gibbston River Trail offers spectacular views of the Kawarau River.
Pinot Country
Gibbston is well known for it's celebrated Pinot Noir. The seasonal extremes of winter and summer, combined with the dry, stony soils of the valley, make Gibbston a perfect growing environment for award winning Pinot.
Wine Tours By Bike
There are loads of tour options for enjoying Gibbston, and sampling the magnificent wine and food of the region by bike. Tour operators offer everything from luxury excursions to self-guided adventures and include options for transport, wine pick-up and bike hire.
Dark Sky Preserve
Gibbston was awarded Dark Sky Park status in 2024 in recognition of the exceptional quality of starry nights, and preservation of natural darkness. An overnight stay in Gibbston is a spectacular treat: gaze into the universe under a sky bristling with stars.
Pedal. Pinot. Pick Up.
Make the most of your time in Gibbston, explore the vineyards, sample the wine and food, enjoy the views, and bask in the sunshine. Once you've ridden the length of the valley, treat your self to a bike shuttle pick up for your return to Arrowtown or Queenstown.
Arthurs Point
Situated at the base of Coronet Peak, Arthurs Point is an alpine village of Queenstown. Home to fantastic restaurants, breweries and world famous tourist attractions, there is plenty to enjoy. Start or finish the Wharehuanui Trail in Arthurs Point.
Coronet Foothills
Winding through the foothills of Coronet Peak, the Wharehuanui Trail boasts expansive views over the Whakatipu Basin and dramatic mountain ranges. Photo Credit: Geoff Marks
Coronet Peak MTB Trails
Coronet Peak Ride offers some of the most fun and spectacular mountain biking terrain in Queenstown. "Carry On" and "Hot Rod" down hill MTB tracks, start on Coronet Peak and finish at the Wharehuanui Trail, and for those keen to make the return climb, the "Dan O'Connell" climbing track also starts from the Wharehuanui Trail.
Mill Creek Reserve
The Mill Creek Reserve restoration has been an incredible conservation project, that has seen the removal of exotic species and replanting of natives, installation of predator traps and implementation of water quality improvement initiatives. The Wharehuanui Trail offers access to this beautifully restored riparian zone, a great place for a stroll with the family, and a great picnic spot.
Kuperus Crossing
Built thanks to the generosity of the Kuperus Family, the Kuperus Crossing bridge spans one of the major creeks (unnamed) that flows down the front face of Coronet Peak.
Millbrook
The Wharehuanui Trail meanders through the beautiful grounds of Millbrook before joining into the Countryside Trail. You can choose to follow the Countryside Trail on to Arrowtown, or head across the Whakatipu Basin to Lake Hayes and back to Frankton.
Arrowtown
Follow the Countryside Trail into Arrowtown - the charming gold rush village famed for its historic buildings, cafes, restaurants and shops. The gateway to the Mahu Whenua, Arrowtown is the starting point for many walking, hiking and cycling trails.
Your Journey Starts Here
The Arthurs Point Trail begins at the corner of Camp Street and Memorial Street in the heart of Queenstown. Look for the magenta-coloured trail signs that will guide you out of the city and into the gorge. Whether you're walking, cycling or scooting, this QLDC active travel route offers a genuine car-free link between the city centre and the hills — a commute with a view like no other.
The New Shared Path
Funded through the Waka Kotahi Climate Emergency Response Fund, the trail corridor was upgraded in 2023–24 with smooth asphalt and chipseal surfaces. A new wider shared path along Robins Road, adjacent to the Queenstown Recreation Ground, connects seamlessly to the city centre — safe, direct, and open to cyclists, walkers and scooters year-round.
Arthurs Point & The Gorge Entrance
As Gorge Road narrows into the canyon, the world shifts. Schist bluffs rise on either side, willows trace the riverbank below, and the sounds of the city fade into birdsong and rushing water. The Matakauri Wetlands — accessible via a short boardwalk loop — are a quiet highlight along this section, tucked into the gorge with mountain views that reward anyone who takes their time.
Coronet Foothills Views
From the upper trail sections, the panoramic scale of the Whakatipu Basin opens up. The tussock-covered slopes of the Coronet foothills sweep upward, framing views toward Coronet Peak and the surrounding ranges. This is Central Otago at its most elemental — golden in autumn, snowcapped in winter, lush in spring — a landscape that changes with every season and rewards regular riders.
Edith Cavell Bridge
One of the great landmarks along the trail, the Edith Cavell Bridge is a Category I heritage structure spanning the Shotover River at Arthurs Point. Designed by Frederick Furkert and built between 1917 and 1919, the elegant concrete arch stands 47 metres above the river. It was informally named by a local gold miner after Edith Cavell, a British nurse executed in Brussels in 1915 — a quiet memorial that became permanent through popular use.
Gantley's Tavern
Built in 1863 as the Pack Horse Hotel, Gantley's Tavern is Queenstown's oldest hospitality business and the perfect Arthurs Point trailhead. The authentic stone building was originally run by Patrick Gantley, providing food and lodgings to gold miners. Today it offers 20 craft beers on tap, pub fare with flair, and a beautiful mountain-view beer garden. The ideal Après Bike destination.
Onsen Hot Pools
Perched on the cliffs above the Shotover River canyon, Onsen Hot Pools is the ultimate trail reward. Private cedar-lined tubs are heated to up to 39.8°C and filled with pure mountain water, while spectacular views of the canyon and surrounding ranges unfold from every pool. Originally opened in 2007, Onsen offers classic tubs, outdoor mineral pools, and full spa treatments — all within 10 minutes of Queenstown city.
Shotover Jet
Operating in the Shotover Canyon since 1965, Shotover Jet is one of New Zealand's most iconic adventure experiences. The world-famous Big Red boats navigate the canyon at speeds of up to 85kph in as little as 10cm of water, threading between steep stone walls carved over thousands of years. The jet boat base sits right at the heart of Arthurs Point — an unmissable add-on for anyone making the trail journey.
Descent from Arthurs Point
A gentle descent through Sycamore forest meanders above the Shotover/Kimi-ākau river above Big Beach towards the lower gorge.
Hugo Tunnel
The 108m long Hugo Tunnel provides a passage directly into the gorge, sponsored by the Hugo Chariable Trust, the Hugo Tunnel combines the history of the area with a spectacular trail experience. The tunnel is lit by solar lights, activated with a push button just inside the tunnel portal. The tunnel tramlines are left in-situ, so be wary and please walk your bike.
Lyttle's Ladder
The trail turns back upstream to climb up to the lip of the gorge on ‘Lyttle's Ladder’ – The incredible feat to build a trail in this terrain means that this section is narrow and steep - less experienced cyclists should enjoy this short section as a walk and push their bikes up the switchbacks.
Buck's Balcony
Incredible views of the gorge below open up as you climb, and are best enjoyed from ‘Bucks Balcony’ as the trail weaves through ferns and native plantings towards Tucker Beach.
Shotover Gorge Trail
Continuing downstream on the Shotover Gorge Trail, the lip of the canyon opens out to a wider landscape, with awesome views of the Remarkables appearing from behind Queenstown Hill.
Kimi-ākau Bridge
The spectacular 90m Kimi-ākau suspension bridge, constructed in 2024.
Gifted to the community by Rotary Queenstown
The Tucker Beach Trail opened in Oct 2018 and was gifted to the community to mark 75 years of Rotary's involvement in the Whakatipu. At Tucker Beach, the trail joins into the Shotover Gorge Trail that connects through to Arthurs Point.
Tucker Beach Wildlife Reserve
This trail passes through the Tucker Beach Management Reserve, home to a number of threatened bird species including the Black-billed Gull (the worlds most endangered gull), the Banded Dotterel and Black-fronted Terns. Please keep dogs on a lead in this area.
A stunning trail with grand mountain vistas
The Tucker Beach Trail is a wonderfully scenic trail to walk or ride with the whole family. With great views of both Coronet Peak, The Remarkable's, and the Kimi-ākau Shotover River.
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