This popular self-guided ride follows the Twin Rivers Trail from historic Arrowtown all the way back to central Queenstown. The 36 km route takes around 3.5 to 4 hours to ride and offers a beautiful mix of riverside trails, rolling farmland, and alpine views, with highlights including the Old Shotover Bridge and the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers.

The trail is well-maintained gravel with some moderate climbs, making it ideal for confident riders with a reasonable level of fitness. For those wanting a more relaxed experience – especially on the hills –E-bikes are highly recommended.

Shuttle Times & Trail Planning

• Summer (September–April): Shuttle departs Queenstown at 9:00 am (check-in by 8:50 am)

• Winter (May–August): Shuttle departs at 10:00 am (check-in by 9:50 am)

The Queenstown shop closes at 5:00 pm in summer and 4:30 pm in winter, so it’s essential to manage your time and allow enough margin for rest stops or photo breaks.

Trail Highlights

• Depart from Arrowtown after a scenic shuttle ride
• Ride along the Arrow and Kawarau Rivers with views of the surrounding mountains
• Cross the Old Shotover Bridge, a historic local landmark
• Enjoy a mix of open farmland, alpine backdrops, and flowing river trails
• Return to Queenstown via the Frankton Track, finishing right near town
• Optional stops include: – The Boatshed Café – Wet Jacket Wines (NZ’s only floating cellar door) – Altitude Brewing

Key Stats

• Distance: 36 km (22 miles)
• Elevation Gain: 303 m (1,007 ft)
• Elevation Loss: 395 m (1,295 ft)
• Trail Surface: Gravel
• Difficulty: Grade 2–3 (easy to intermediate), with three moderate climbs
• Most people will take 3.5 to 4 hours 

How Difficult Is This Ride?

This route is best suited for riders with moderate to high fitness levels who are comfortable riding for several hours. The three climbs in the middle section aren’t overly steep but can be challenging for some.

Many riders opt for E-bikes to make the experience more enjoyable and less physically demanding – especially if you want to take your time and enjoy the scenery.

Is This Ride Family-Friendly?

• Children must be at least 140 cm (4 ft 6″) to fit our smallest E-bikes
• Infants can ride in trailers or on tag-alongs, depending on availabilityThis is a very challenging ride for younger children or those who don’t ride regularly For a more family-friendly option, we recommend the Arrowtown to Gibbston ride instead

What If the Weather Turns?

The weather in Queenstown can shift quickly. We assess trail conditions on the day of your ride. If you’re unsure, give us a call 45 minutes to 1 hour before your shuttle departs, and we’ll review the forecast with you.

If the weather is unsafe for riding, we’ll do our best to reschedule, or provide a refund (minus a 3% transaction fee) if needed.

Final Tips

• Dress in layers – alpine weather can change quickly
• Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen
• Allow time for stops, especially if you plan to visit cafés or breweries
• Don’t forget your camera – this ride is packed with photo-worthy moments
•  Terms and Conditions here