Important notice: This trail is currently not open until September 2026, you can secure your spot now! 

Ride the spectacular Kawarau Gorge Trail from Cromwell back to Gibbston Valley on this 40 km self-guided adventure. Starting with a scenic shuttle from Queenstown, this unforgettable ride winds alongside the Kawarau River, through Bannockburn wine country, across dramatic suspension bridges, and deep into the heart of the gorge before finishing at The Church Cellar Door & Cafe for a well-earned refreshment.

This is one of the region’s most iconic rides, featuring flowing river trails, historic gold mining sites, and thrilling clip-on bridges.

Important Ride Warning & Rider Responsibility

The Kawarau Gorge Trail includes a remote gorge section of approximately 28km with no exit points once entered. Riders must complete this section to reach the finish point in Gibbston Valley. This ride covers 42 km of undulating gravel trail and requires a moderate to strong level of fitness. Please ensure you are physically capable of riding this distance before departure.

Please note:

• There is limited mobile reception within the gorge
• No vehicle access is available in the central gorge section
• Weather conditions can change rapidly
• You must carry sufficient water, food, and appropriate clothing
• Riders are responsible for managing their time to make the pick up.
• Our Bikes will have thicker tyres to prevent punctures and you’ll be provided puncture kits for your group.

This ride is not suitable for inexperienced cyclists or young children. If you are unsure about your ability, we strongly recommend hiring an E-bike.

By participating, riders acknowledge they are undertaking a self-guided ride in a remote environment and accept responsibility for their own safety and preparedness.

Shuttle Times & Trail Planning

Winter Departure (May-August): 

Departure 9am, check in is at 8.50am at 3 Searle Lane.

Pick up is 4pm from The Church Cellar Door in Gibbston Valley

Trail Highlights

• Scenic transfer from Queenstown to Cromwell
• Ride along the Kawarau River with expansive river views
• Wind through Bannockburn’s renowned wine country
• Pass historic Goldfields and stop in at Panners for breakfast or a coffee
• Cross dramatic clip-on bridges attached to the gorge rock face
• Experience the Citreon and Nevis Ferry Swing Bridges 
• Ride past the powerful Nevis Rapids
• Finish at The Church Cellar Door & Cafe for a glass of wine or coffee before pickup

Key Stats

• Distance: 42 km
• Trail Surface: Well-maintained gravel
• Difficulty: Grade 2–3 (easy to intermediate)
• Terrain: Undulating with steady climbs through the isolated gorge
• Ride Time: Most riders take 3-4 hours depending on pace and stops

How Difficult Is This Ride?

This ride is best suited to riders with a moderate level of fitness who are comfortable cycling 40+ km in a day. The gorge section includes approximately 30 km of continuous undulating trail with no exit points until completion. While the climbs are not extreme, the distance and sustained rolling terrain require stamina. E-bikes are highly recommended for riders wanting a more relaxed and enjoyable experience, especially through the gorge section.

Is This Ride Family-Friendly?

Due to the distance and sustained terrain, this ride is not recommended for younger children.

Confident teenage riders on E-bikes may enjoy the challenge, but families with younger children may prefer shorter options.

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 although it is not recommended.

For a more family-friendly option, we recommend shorter trail sections closer to Queenstown.

What If the Weather Turns?

Weather conditions in the Southern Lakes region can change quickly. We assess trail conditions on the day of departure. If you’re unsure, please call us 45–60 minutes before shuttle departure to review the forecast. If conditions are unsafe, we will offer to reschedule your booking or provide a refund (minus a 3% transaction fee) if necessary.

Final Tips

• Dress in layers – alpine weather can shift quickly
• Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen
• Allow plenty of time for scenic stops and photos
• Consider an E-bike for maximum enjoyment
• Don’t forget your camera – the gorge views are unforgettable

For full trail details, visit the official Kawarau Gorge Trail page.