The Kawarau Trail
Bookable now: Trail Open September 19th
Will This Be New Zealand’s Best Day Ride?
Just a short drive from Queenstown, the Kawarau Trail follows the magnificent Kawarau River as it winds through a dramatic landscape of mountains, gorges, and historic landmarks. The trail offers a genuine sense of adventure and remoteness, with some isolated sections, yet remains accessible to most intermediate riders—particularly those riding an e-bike.
The scenery is spectacular. The views are world-class. The adventure is waiting.
If you’re comfortable riding alongside a powerful river, don’t mind a few heights, and enjoy smooth gravel trails featuring steady climbs, flowing descents, and the occasional tight corner, this ride deserves a place at the top of your bucket list.
The Kawarau Trail is set to become one of New Zealand’s most sought-after cycling experiences, especially during its first summer season. Demand is expected to be high and places will fill quickly.
Don’t miss out—secure your ride today!
Explore the Kawarau Trail From Queenstown
Bookable now: Trail Open September 19th
Bringing You More Ways to Ride the Kawarau Trail
We’re busy developing new Kawarau Trail options for riders with their own transport.
Soon, you’ll be able to choose from a range of flexible one-way rides, with convenient transfers back to your vehicle, allowing you to start from either end of the trail and enjoy the best sections at your own pace.
These options are coming soon, so check back shortly to explore the possibilities and plan your perfect Kawarau Trail adventure.
Trail Detail and Grading
A Grade 2-3 cycle trail, designed with the capable intermediate rider in mind, the Kawarau Trail offers an unforgettable cycling experience. Most ride options will cover 30 – 34 km, making it an ideal day out for those seeking adventure without extreme physical difficulty – although we do highly recommend an Electric Bike.
While some sections may be narrow and require a bit more focus, the majority of the trail features wide, well-formed gravel paths with gentle gradients and moderate hills.
Trail highlights include:
Clip-on bridges suspended high above the landscape
Swing bridges spanning the powerful Kawarau River
Rugged, dramatic scenery unique to Central Otago
Vantage points overlooking iconic rapids, including the formidable Nevis Bluff rapid
Smooth-flowing gravel sections ideal for intermediate-level riders
Kawarau Cycle Trail Map
