
Coronet Loop Trail
50km Backcountry Single-track Epic
50km circuit
4–6 hours
A bucket-list grade 3-4 backcountry mountain bike trail that takes in some of the most dramatic and historic landscapes in the region. At 50km, it’s a full day out — with serious elevation, sweeping views and a real sense of remote adventure. Most riders tackle it clockwise, starting in Arrowtown and rapidly gaining altitude on the awesome and challenging Bush Creek Track.
From Bush Creek Saddle, the Coronet Face Water Race weaves along the front face of Coronet Peak through remnant beech forest, past old flume pipes and the site of the Racemans Hut. A steady climb leads up over the skifield access road, and either into ‘Tradesmans’ and ‘Pack Track and Sack’ (grade 4, technical), or to Skippers Saddle and the Pack Track or Skippers Road to the bottom of Long Gully.
Another stiff climb leads to Greengate Saddle and a flowing descent down to the historic Greengate Hut before climbing again to Picnic Rock with spectacular panoramic views high above Deep Creek. The trail descends beside waterfalls, through gorges and over creek crossings to the plateau of Golden Terraces and ‘Easter Island’, following remnant miners’ tracks between ramshackle huts and remains of the goldmining era gone-by.
The final stretch of the loop (and probably the most fun) drops into Eight Mile Creek and follows a reclaimed water race past the Eight Mile Hut and onto Macetown Road, tracing the Arrow River back to Arrowtown. Make sure to take the numerous signposted singletrack sections, which although narrow and technical will keep your feet dry, even if you have to walk! Just before Arrowtown, cross the Norman Smith Bridge and push up steep steps to finish on the Arrow Gorge Trail and avoid multiple (deep) river crossings.
Short on time? The Coronet Loop Lite (35km, from Skippers Saddle to Arrowtown) is a great option to take out a chunk of elevation and distance.
What to See & Do Along the Trail
Accommodation, Things to do, Food & Drink & Services
Canyon Brewery
Craft brewery & tap room. Enjoy expertly crafted share-style dishes and local craft beer.
1 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
Cargo Brewery
Craft brewery and bar in Arthurs Point: unique beer, cider and gin offerings.
171 Arthurs Point Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown 9371

Lakes District Museum & Gallery
The award winning Lakes District Museum is set in the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown and presents an authentic picture of early life in the Whakatipu District.
49 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown 9302

The Fork & Tap Alehouse
Specialising in craft beer with 19 beers/cider on tap, local wines & delicious fresh food
51 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown 9302

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

FERGBUTCHER
Premium meats, locally made bread, takeaway hot food, and expertly brewed coffee.
7 Bush Creek Road, Arrowtown 9302

The Spa at Millbrook
A place of deep rest & rejuvenation with treatments to soothe body & mind.
1124 Malaghans Road, Arrowtown 9371

Millbrook Golf
Two 18-hole golf courses showcasing dramatic terrain whilst delivering world-class golf.
1124 Malaghans Road, Arrowtown 9371

Millbrook Health & Fitness
Bright & modern Health & Fitness Centre - heated pool, personal training & group classes.

Millbrook Resort
Luxury resort offering accommodation, dining options, spa & 2 championship golf courses.
1124 Malaghans Road, Arrowtown 9371

Arrowfield Apartments
Luxury self-contained apartments in Arrowtown with private secure bike storage.
115 Essex Avenue,
Arrowtown 9302

Outside Sports
Premium outdoor gear, expert advice & bike rentals for hikers, bikers, skiers, & explorers
9 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300

Aluume
Hot, cold, and mineral bathing experiences - perfect recovery after a day on the trails.
34 Brecon Street, Queenstown 9300

Millbrook Dining
Five-star cuisine with multiple onsite restaurants catering to every taste.
1124 Malaghans Road, Arrowtown 9371

Trail Essentials
Trailhead Locations & Parking
Most commonly ridden clockwise, starting and finishing at the Chinese Village Carpark, Arrowtown.
Also accessible via:
- Coronet Peak Station Road (Dan O’Connell Climb)
- Skippers Saddle, Coronet Ski Field Road
Toilets & Facilities
- Buckingham St Carpark (Arrowtown)
- Greengate Hut
- Eight Mile Hut
Overnight: Greengate and Eight Mile Huts are basic backcountry shelters — first come, first served, no bookings. Total fire ban applies on trail.
Water Stations
No water stations on trail. Carry sufficient water and fill up in Arrowtown before you head out.
Some mountain streams higher up provide options if you run out, but water treatment is recommended.
Accessibility Notes
Intermediate/Advanced grade 3-4. Remote backcountry single track with steep climbs, narrow trail, exposed sections, variable surface (gravel, rock, mud) and multiple creek/river crossings. Experience required.
Coronet Loop is closed throughout winter, generally from May–October (keep an eye on the website for more info).
- Backcountry, single track, remote location
- Steep climbs, narrow trail, exposed sections
- Variable trail surface including gravel, rock and mud
- Multiple creek/river crossings
- No cell phone reception
- Plenty of climbing
- 4WD traffic on Skippers Road and Macetown Road
- Changeable alpine weather conditions — weather extremes including very hot, very cold, windy and wet weather
- Trail subject to land-slips/flood damage after heavy rain/storm events
Trail Etiquette & Safety
E-bikes (pedal assist) are welcome — manage your battery carefully given the length and climbing involved. Plan for variable weather, carry a map and let someone know your plans.
Become A Trail Lover
Help Keep Our Trails World-Class.
Every contribution and partnership helps us maintain and grow the Queenstown Trails network. Your support helped us build 45 km of trails last year.

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