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Countryside Trail

Arrowtown to Old Lower Shotover Bridge

Part of the Queenstown Trail 'Great Ride' network, this section of the trail allows you to enjoy quiet countryside as you pass breathtaking architecture, tree-lined avenues and stunning alpine vistas. Here, the magnificent colours of the South Island come to life - particularly in Autumn.

About this Trail

  • Getting there
  • Plan and prepare
  • Trail code
  • Guided options
  • FAQ's

Getting there

Parking is available at either end of the Countryside Trail, at the Old Lower Shotover Bridge (9.3 kms from Queenstown Centre on SH6) or adjacent to Dudley's Cottage in Arrowtown. Transport is readily available to and from Arrowtown for you and your bikes - get in touch with one of our tour operators for bike hire and transport options.

The Countryside Trail provides access to the Lake Hayes Trail. At the Old Lower Shotover Bridge, it links to the Twin Rivers Trail which can take you either back towards Queenstown or Gibbston. You can also jump onto the newly built Tucker Beach Trail to Tuckers Beach or the Lower Shotover Trail which ends at Littles Road nr Arthurs Point.

Plan and prepare

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.       Explore the Queenstown Trail video

For more information on how to stay safe on your trip go here 

Trail code

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.

  • Share the trail with care and use a bell
  • Keep to the left and pass on the right
  • Bikers give way to walkers
  • Stay in control so you can safely avoid other users and keep yourself safe
  • Be patient behind slower riders and pull oer where practical to let faster riders pass
  • Keep to the trail, don’t trespass on private land
  • Horses are generally not permitted on the Queenstown Trail, except for approved shared-use sections
  • Dogs should be under control at all times - check out QLDC's rules and regs around dog walking in the district here
  • Light no fires
  • Report all hazards
  • Keep streams and lakes clean
  • Bury toilet waste
  • Take your rubbish home with you
  • Protect plants and animals

Guided options

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.

FAQ's

Go to the Frequently Asked Questions page to find answers to any questions you may have before you head out onto the trail.

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