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Lower Shotover Conservation Area
5km one way
45 min
1 hr 45 min
Grade
4
An awesome old-school single track along the true left of the Kimi-ākau Shotover River, running between Fitzpatrick Road and the Old Lower Shotover Bridge. This is proper grade 4 technical riding — with steep climbs, tree roots and some exposed terrain — better suited to more experienced riders.
Starting from the historic Old Lower Shotover Bridge, take the Countryside Trail towards Arrowtown heading upstream on the river-left. At the bottom of the notorious Cardiac Climb, signs direct you into the Lower Shotover Conservation Area, across the gravel flats (watch for horses, they have right of way), around bluffs and into the Willows for some fun, techy sections weaving through the trees.
At the sand cliffs, the trail crosses the river gravel beach before climbing steep, sandy zigzags to the terrace above the Lower Shotover Gorge. At the picnic bench you have the choice to exit onto Fitzpatrick Road, continue upstream towards the Hugo Tunnel on the Shotover Gorge Trail, or descend to the Kimi-ākau Bridge and cross onto the Tucker Beach Trail to complete the bridge-to-bridge circuit and return to your start point.
⚠️ During wet weather and flood events the trail becomes impassable at the sand cliffs due to high river levels — take the alternate exit onto Domain Road, which leads up steeply just before the beach.
This area is an important habitat for endangered nesting gravel birds, so please stick to the trail and keep dogs on a lead.
What to See & Do Along the Trail
Accommodation, Things to do, Food & Drink & Services
Cargo Brewery
Craft brewery and bar in Arthurs Point: unique beer, cider and gin offerings.
171 Arthurs Point Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown 9371

Gantley’s Tavern
Historic 1860s tavern with great coffee, craft beer & hearty food.
172 Arthurs Point Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown 9371

Ride to the Sky eBike Tours
eBike Tours with knowledgeable guides - suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Country Lane Retail Village 26 Hansen Road, Frankton, Queenstown 9300

Onsen Hot Pools
Hot pools & day spa overlooking the Shotover River - book well in advance.
160 Arthurs Point Road, Arthurs Point
Canyon Brewery
Craft brewery & tap room. Enjoy expertly crafted share-style dishes and local craft beer.
1 Arthurs Point Road,
Arthurs Point,
Queenstown 9371

Trail Essentials
Trailhead Locations & Parking
Two main access points:
- Old Lower Shotover Bridge – off Tucker Beach Road or Spence Road (East & West carparks)
- From the Tucker Beach Recreation Reserve carpark, cross the Kimi-ākau Bridge and climb the switchbacks to meet the upstream end of the trail.
Toilets & Facilities
Toilets, shelter and picnic table at the Old Lower Shotover Bridge West Carpark.
Water Stations
No water stations on trail — carry sufficient water.
Accessibility Notes
Grade 3-4 — Intermediate/Advanced MTB Trail. Technically demanding with steep climbs, rocks and tree roots. Narrow trail with some exposed sections. Confident advanced riders only.
- A narrow track with variable trail surface, including obstacles such as rocks and tree roots
- Steep drops beside the trail
- Signposting. Some short sections with limited cell phone reception (usually near cliffs)
- Walkers, bikers and horse riders sharing the trail
Trail Etiquette & Safety
Horse riders have right of way. Keep speeds controlled on blind corners. Check trail conditions before heading out — this trail can be affected by rain.
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