The Great Ride

Known in Māori as Ngā Haerenga (‘The Journeys’), Queenstown Trail is one of New Zealand's 23 Great Rides. The Great Rides and connecting Heartland/Connector Rides are as diverse as they are beautiful, serving up an irresistible blend of scenic grandeur and striking natural wonders alongside rich culture and heritage, exciting outdoor activities, and delicious food & wine. There's no better way to enjoy and explore New Zealand.

Surrounded by sheer mountain ranges, this trail threads through the Wakatipu Basin on a mix of lakeside paths, country lanes, quiet roads and cross-country cycleways. It links Queenstown, Arrowtown and the Gibbston Valley – with countless sights and activities to enjoy in between.

The Queenstown Trail can be ridden as a multi-day adventure, stopping overnight along the way, or tailored as day rides to suit a range of ages and abilities. Either way, it’s a fabulous way to see the sights while soaking up the scenery – and made even easier thanks to convenient bike hire, shuttle transport and cycle tours.

For more information view the Queenstown Trail map and description HERE or download the Great Rides App.

Please also consider supporting the work of the Queenstown Trails Trust by donating and becoming a Trail Lover. If you love our trails, as little as the price of a couple of coffees each month can safeguard the future of the trails and help us expand our trail network.

                        Day 1
                        Queenstown to Frankton via Kelvin Heights and Jack's Point. Starting at the Queenstown Gardens, your 4 day journey starts as a flat and easy ride to Frankton Beach following the shores of the Lake Wakatipu to the historic Kawarau Falls Bridge. Follow the Kelvin Peninsula Trail around the golf course up to Jardine Park. Advanced riders can ride to Jack's Point from here.
                        
1 / 4

                        Day 2
                        Frankton to Arrowtown via the Twin Rivers and Countryside Trails. You'll pass through quiet country lanes, breathtaking architecture, historic galleries and you'll have the option to circumnavigate Lake Hayes.
                        
2 / 4

                        Day 3
                        Arrowtown to Gibbston. Today is an easy 22km ride. Recharge at one of the many Arrowtown eateries before you head downstream onto the Arrow River Bridges Trail. You'll pass many bridges and tunnels and at the historic Kawarau Suspension Bridge take a rest and watch the bungy jumpers. Here the Gibbston River Trail begins and your journey into the Valley of Vines - Central Otago's premier wine growi...
                        
3 / 4

                        Day 4
                        Gibbston to Queenstown via the Gibbston River Trail, Twin Rivers Trail and the Frankton Track. The final leg of the journey is 40km of easy to intermediate trails. Save some leg power for the last day as it really is a stunning ride taking in the iconic Edgar Bridge. Order a picnic from Kinross Cottages the night before and enjoy under the willow trees by the side of the Kawarau River.
                        
4 / 4