With its beautiful green landscape and crystal-clear blue waters, there is no doubt that Queenstown is the perfect place for a bike ride. If you would like to hire a bike and spin past Queenstown’s beautiful scenery on two wheels, here are the top 5 best bike trails in Queenstown curated by our Naumi local team.
1. Gibbston River Trail
If you’re looking for a relaxing, no-sweat bike trail that offers stunning views of Queenstown, the Gibbston River Trail is the perfect biking trail for you. For a total distance of about 9 km, this trail will take you through the spectacular vistas of the Valley of the Vines and the Kawarau River, with several stops in-between for a picnic or wine tasting.
Starting from the Kawarau Suspension Bridge, make your way towards the Kawarau River and follow the path towards Gibbston Valley Winery Restaurant, where you can make a short stop here for lunch or a wine-cave tour. A little down the road is Peregrine Winery, an international award-winning winery famous for their modern architecture. Make sure not to skip a wine-tasting session while you’re here, and head over to the nearby Gibbston Tavern for their wholesome menu and beer garden.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Address of Starting Point: AJ Hackett Kawarau Bridge Bungy Centre, Gibbston Valley, Queenstown 9371, New Zealand
Route: Kawarau Suspension Bridge > Kawarau River > Gibbston Valley Winery Restaurant > Peregrine Winery > Gibbston Tavern > Gibbston Back Road
Distance: 8.7 km
Estimated Duration: 2 – 4 hours
2. Lake Hayes Trail
Lake Hayes Trail is another popular trail among those who prefer a short, relaxing ride with splendid views. For the duration of just about an hour, this 8-km trail will take you around Wakatipu Basin and Lake Hayes, offering you scenic views of the exquisite lake and mountains.
Take a glimpse of the historic cottages, homes and wildlife as you cruise past the glistening waters, and take a plunge into its depths to cool off during the summer months. The award-winning Amisfield Winery is also conveniently located around the lake, offering an excellent dining option after a long ride.
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Address of Starting Point: Rutherford road off Speargrass Flat road
Route: Rutherford road > Wakatipu Rowing Club > Bendemeer Bay > Lake Hayes Reserve
Distance: 8 km
Estimated Duration: 1 – 3 hours
3. Twin Rivers Trail
Looking for something more remote? The Twin Rivers Trail covers both the Kawarau River and Shotover River, two of the most popular rivers in New Zealand giving you magnificent, scenic views. The road starts at Kawarau Falls Bridge, giving you spectacular views of The Remarkables mountain range, before heading to Shotover River toward the Old Lower Shotover Bridge.
Just before Billie’s bridge is a picnic sign where you can take a short rest before making your way to the end of the trail at Morven Ferry Road, where you may either continue your journey at Arrowtown, Gibbston or back to Kawarau River.
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Address of Starting Point: Kawarau Falls Bridge, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Route: Kawarau Falls Bridge > Shotover Delta > Lower Shotover Bridge > Old Lower Shotover Bridge > Billie’s Bridge > Morven Ferry Road
Distance: 18.5 km
Estimated Duration: 3 – 5 hours
4. Queenstown to Gibbston
The Queenstown to Gibbston Bike Trail is not for the faint-hearted. Lasting for a total of 40 km for approximately 6 – 12 hours, it is the perfect half-day ride that covers most of the popular bike trails, including scenery, rivers and even bungy jumping.
Start off your ride from the Queenstown Gardens, where you can get local craft beer and tantalizing sticky buns, before continuing your journey towards the Shotover Bridge. Take a walk up towards Coronet Peak for a breathtaking photo spot, and make your way towards Shotover Bridge and Hayes Creek for another perfect photo-taking opportunity. As you head towards the end of the trail, make sure to pass by the award-winning Peregrine Winery, and consider going to the Gibbston Valley Restaurant for lunch and wine tasting.
Difficulty Level: Easy to Intermediate
Address of Starting Point: Queenstown Gardens, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Route: Queenstown Gardens > Frankton Beach > Old Lower Shotover Bridge > Tranquil Pastoral Country > Edgar Bridge > Kawarau Suspension Bridge > The Kawarau River > Peregrine Winery
Distance: 40 km
Estimated Duration: 6 – 12 hours
5. Jack’s Point Trail
With multiple steep climbs, tight bends and steep descents, the Jack’s Point Trail is one of the more challenging trails that is more well-suited for experienced and extreme bikers. For a total of 2 – 3 hours, this trail will have your muscles burning in no time as you weave through the wild tussocks and schist. Let your hard work pay off as you look over the sweeping mountain views of the Remarkables and stunning Otago landscapes at the top.
Due to its rough terrain, this trail is perfect for experienced riders who seek something off the beaten path with less crowded routes. To conclude your ride, take a well-earned rest at the golf course, and consider going for the nearby Jack’s Point Clubhouse Restaurant and Bar for a satisfying dinner to end the day.
Difficulty Level: Advanced
Address of Starting Point: Jardine Park, Poplar Drive, Kelvin Heights, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Route: Jardine Park > Kelvin Peninsula Trail > Kelvin Heights Sculpture Trail > Jack’s Point
Distance: 7.1 km
Estimated Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Bike Rentals at the dairy private hotel
Bike rentals are available at The Dairy Private Hotel for the following packages:
- Half-day hire (4 hours) — $30/bike (return before 1 pm)
- Half-day hire (4 hours) — $30/bike (pick up after 1 pm)
- Full-day hire (8 hours) — $50/bike
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