Shotover Gorge Trail
6km one way
0.5–1 hr bike
1.5–2 hrs walk
Grade
3
One of the most dramatic and rewarding trail experiences in New Zealand. The Shotover Gorge Trail carves a route above the gorge of the Kimi-ākau Shotover River — combining stunning scenery, fascinating mining history, and one genuinely unforgettable experience through the 108-metre Hugo Tunnel.
Starting from Arthurs Point, the trail descends gently through sycamore forest above the river before reaching the tunnel portal. Solar lighting activates at the push of a button — the original tramlines are preserved in-situ, so less experienced riders should exercise caution and walk through. On the far side, Shotover Jet boats pass at close quarters in the narrow canyon.
⚠️ DO NOT SWIM in the Shotover Gorge - Shotover Jet operates here and it is never safe to paddle or swim.
The trail climbs out of the tunnel on ‘Lyttles Ladder’ — steep and narrow with Grade 4 corners — before the views open dramatically from ‘Bucks Balcony’ as the trail follows the crest of the gorge toward Tucker Beach.
Some challenging sections can be walked, or the tunnel can be bypassed via a detour the Tunnel Bypass and the Wharehuanui Trail.
The trail continues to McQuilkin’s Bridge and lookout (with breathtaking views down the canyon), then zigzags to the river and the spectacular 90-metre Kimi-ākau suspension bridge — built in 2024 and offering front-row views of the Shotover Jet performing 360° spins below. From Tucker Beach, the Tucker Beach Trail continues to the Old Lower Shotover Bridge, connecting to the Twin Rivers and Countryside Trails.
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.
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
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
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
Fino Restaurant Wine Bar
Nestled on the waterfront at Queenstown Marina, Fino Restaurant & Wine Bar is where exceptional food, exquisite wine, and breathtaking views come together.
Marina Shed 8/9/3 Sugar Lane, Frankton, Queenstown 9300
How to experience the Hugo Tunnel
A beginners guide to Queenstown's must-do trail
Not sure where to start? At the new Swiss Bell Resort Parking, or walk the loop from the Redemption Carpark.
Park: At the new Swiss Bell Resort Parking, or walk the loop from the Redemption Carpark
Start: Head to the Shotover Gorge Trail on Atley Road
Shotover Gorge Trail
The Shotover Gorge Trail heads downhill to the Hugo Tunnel. This part of the Shotover Gorge is wide, smooth and with a gentle gradient. This section of trail is suitable for families and less experienced riders.Distance: Atley Road - Hugo Tunnel: 1.6kmTime: Walking 1hr return, Biking 45min return
Hugo Tunnel
An incredible slice of local history and a unique trail experience, enjoy the thrill of wandering under the hill-side and emerging in the Lower Shotover Gorge. Enjoy the sunshine at the picnic area, check out the information panel, and light up the tunnel to explore.
The Trail Beyond The Tunnel
The Shotover Gorge Trail directly beyond the Hugo Tunnel is much more technical: a narrower width, with tight corners, some steep sections, and switchbacks. A marvel of engineering, the skilled trail builders managed to carve access to the tunnel through very challenging terrain. The resulting trail is spectacular with stunning views, but if you are not confident to ride, enjoy this section as a walk. There's the option to leave your bike and take a wander to experience this beautiful piece of trail. Stay safe and enjoy the views.
Distance: Hugo Tunnel - Hugo Tunnel Intersection: 1.3km
Time: 20min walk (one way)
Share with care
- Keep left- Use your bell
- Call out around blind corners
- Slow down when passing
The trail is for everyone: walkers, runners and cyclists. We've seen a huge number of trail users out exploring the Shotover Gorge Trail and Hugo Tunnel - thank you for making it welcoming and safe.
Trail Essentials
Trailhead Locations & Parking
Starting in Arthurs Point (10 min drive from Queenstown):
- Atley Road
- Swiss-Belresort carpark
- Redemption Carpark
- Limited roadside parking
Tucker Beach: Tucker Beach Carpark
OLSB: parking at both ends of the bridge
Transport (including bike transport) is available to/from Arthurs Point.
Toilets & Facilities
Picnic benches at: Arthurs Point Descent, Tunnel Trail Intersection, McQuilkins Lookout, and Fitzpatrick.
Water Stations
No water stations on trail — carry sufficient water.
Accessibility Notes
Grade 3, with short Grade 4 sections between the Hugo Tunnel Intersection and the Hugo Tunnel. The challenging sections are signposted.
Adaptive Riding Info
Trail Width: Generally >2m.
- Exception — Hugo Tunnel Trail (between Hugo Tunnel Intersection and the Hugo Tunnel): includes narrow sections <1m–2m
- Exception — Hugo Tunnel Bypass (between Hugo Tunnel Intersection and Littles Road): generally <1.5m
Both of these narrow sections include trail with steep drops next to it, and increased exposure.
Steep Sections:
- Hugo Tunnel Trail (between Hugo Tunnel Intersection and the Hugo Tunnel)
- Hugo Tunnel Bypass (between Hugo Tunnel Intersection and Littles Road)
- Section of trail between Kimi-ākau Bridge and Fitzpatrick Road (on the true left of the river)
Structures:
- 90m Kimi-ākau suspension bridge
- McQuilkin’s Bridge at Little Stream
- Hugo Tunnel
Trail Etiquette & Safety
⚠️ DO NOT SWIM in the Shotover Gorge — Shotover Jet operates here and it is never safe to paddle or swim.
Watch children closely near steep drops above the river. Well-maintained trail with some steep drop-offs.
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