Gibbston River Trail
Kawarau Suspension Bridge to the Gibbston Back RoadPart of t
Tell me moreCoronet Loop Repairs are currently underway and Coronet Loop is still closed. Coronet Face Water Race is open.
Part of the Queenstown Trail 'Great Ride' network, this trail hugs two of New Zealand’s most iconic and picturesque rivers. The beauty and remoteness of this section of the Queenstown Trail really sets it apart. Be sure to take plenty of snacks and water as it’s the most remote part of the trail.
18.5 km one way
Intermediate (Grade 3)
The trail starts at the Kawarau Falls Bridge, cross under the bridge to connect with the Twin Rivers Trail via Robertson Street. Follow the trail alongside the Kawarau Falls Scenic Reserve down to the Kawarau River.
Follow the willow lined banks of the Kawarau River towards the Shotover Delta, here the Shotover River enters the Kawarau River from the north and you will follow the trail and make your way towards the Old Lower Shotover Bridge. Restored to its former glory by the Rotary Club of Queenstown, the view from the bridge up to Coronet Peak is breath-taking – a definite photo moment.
Cross the Old Lower Shotover Bridge and follow the trail down the true left of the Shotover River to Old School Road, you’ll pass underneath the State Highway 6 and continue on hugging the river bank, past the Shotover Country and Lakes Hayes Estate communities. As you continue winding your way along the river, you'll be rewarded with a picture postcard view around every bend as you climb and descend to the sparkling aquamarine Kawarau river bed.
Just before reaching Billie’s Bridge which crosses Hayes Creek, there's a picturesque picnic spot. Sit back, relax and drink in the splendour of this serene location.
At the top of Thompson’s hill - the longest and last hill on this ride, stop and admire the view across the Kawarau River up to the Remarkables Mountain range and Rastus Burn. Enjoy the easy descent through tranquil pastoral land surrounded by three mountain ranges. The Twin Rivers Trail ends at Morven Ferry Road.
At Morven Ferry Road you can pick up the Arrow River Bridges Trail and carry on to Arrowtown or head to Gibbston for a spot of lunch and wine tasting at one of the many wineries.
If you need to arrange bike transport back to your home base talk to one our Official Partners in the Trail Directory.
Dual valve air pumps have been installed at the Old Lower Shotover Bridge.
18.5 km one way
Intermediate (Grade 4)
The trail starts at the historic Kawarau Falls Bridge where the trail cruises under the bridge and along behind the Remarkables Park area with the Kawarau Scenic Reserve on your right. The trail then drops down to wind along the Kawarau River’s edge and takes you towards the Shotover Delta. Here the Shotover River enters the Kawarau River from the north and you will follow the trail to make your way towards the Old Lower Shotover Bridge. Restored to its former glory by the Rotary Club of Queenstown, the view from the river up to Coronet Peak is breath-taking – a definite photo moment.
Cross the Old Lower Shotover Bridge and follow the trail down the true left of the Shotover River to Old School Road, you’ll pass underneath the State Highway 6 and continue on hugging the river and the willow tree lined banks, past the Shotover Country and Lakes Hayes Estate communities.
Continue winding your way along the true south of the river, the trail includes a few climbs but you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with some of the most majestic views in the area. Just before reaching Billie’s Bridge which crosses Hayes Creek, there's a picturesque picnic spot. Sit back, relax and drink in the splendour of this serene location.
At the top of Thompson’s hill - the longest and last hill on this ride, stop and admire the view across the Kawarau River up to the Remarkables Mountain range and Rastus Burn. Enjoy the easy descent through tranquil pastoral land surrounded by three mountain ranges. The Twin Rivers Trail ends at Morven Ferry Road.
At Morven Ferry Road you can pick up the Arrow River Bridges Trail and carry on to Arrowtown or head to Gibbston for a spot of lunch and wine tasting at one of the many wineries.
If you need to arrange bike transport back to your home base talk to one our Official Partners listed in the Trail Directory
1. If coffee and cake is beckonings upon reaching the signposted Lake Hayes Estate turn off, take a short detour to The Hayes for refreshments.
2. At this point if you are keen for an additional loop trail, continue through Lake Hayes Estate to the Lake Hayes Trail and enjoy a short and scenic 8 km ride.
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A limited amount of parking is available at the start of the Twin Rivers Trail at Bridge Street or better still park at Frankton Beach (via Lake Avenue and only a short distance from the Kawarau Falls Bridge). At the end of the trail at Morven Ferry Road, you'll find a small car park and toilet facilities. Transport is readily available to and from Queenstown / Arrowtown for you and your bikes - get in touch with one of our tour operators for bike hire and transport options via our Trail Directory.
The Twin Rivers Trail links to the Frankton Track and Kelvin Peninsula Trail taking you back to Queenstown or to Jack's Point. You can join the Countryside Trail at the Old Lower Shotover Bridge and the Arrow River Bridges Trail at Morven Ferry Rd leading you to eitehr Arrowtown or Gibbston. It is also possible to access the Lake Hayes Trail follow the signs from Lake Hayes Estate.
This site is loaded with maps, information and advice, Here’s how to get the most out of it:
1. Choose your ride: You’ll be spoilt for choice – so many options, so many trails. a Find trail to suit your experience and timeframes.
2. Plan your adventure: To find local places to eat, stay and discover, check out our Official Partners directory listings. You’ll find tour operators, transport providers, cafes, wineries and activities and so much more.
3. Download a map or the Great Rides app
4. Watch the Queenstown Trail video
For more information on how to stay safe on your trip go here
Here are a few important pointers to foster positive attitudes between different trail users and remember we are lucky that many local landowners have given us access to their private property.
Many of our Trusted Partners offer guided tours and shuttles to and from the start and end points of the trails - allowing you to ultimately tailor your trail experience and pick up tons of local knowledge and discover secret spots along the way!
Click here to see our Directory of Tour Operators.
Go to the Frequently Asked Questions page to find answers to any questions you may have before you head out onto the trail.