Arrowtown To Gibbston Valley 

Ride the Arrow River Bridges Trail

Return Shuttles 1 – 2 Hour Ride 15 km Scenic River Trail

Ride Information

This half-day ride package starts with a 25 minute shuttle from our shop in Queenstown out to Arrowtown, one of the most scenic towns in New Zealand. We’ll get you sorted with everything you need before you ride the most popular section of the Queenstown Trail network.

The trail from Arrowtown meanders along the banks of the Arrow and Kawarau rivers. It crosses the rivers via six bridges – including three suspension bridges – and follows the original path used by the gold-miners of the 1800’s. The spectacular river gorges and glacially-carved landscapes provide plenty of photo opportunities.

Once passed the Kawarau Bungy-Jump Bridge, the trail opens up to the majestic Gibbston Wine Valley. The first cellar door in the valley is only a short ride further on. You’ll have time to sample what this world-class wine region has to offer before your return shuttle back to Queenstown.

This ride is easy mountain biking on wide, gravel trails. The trail undulates beside the rivers with a lot of small ‘bumps’, though there are fewer ‘ups’ than there are ‘downs’, as you will be heading downstream. It’s suitable for all riding abilities and a great option for families.

Itinerary Timings
Choose your departure time when making your booking

9:20 am or 12:50 pm (Sept to Apr)

9:50 am or 11:50 am (May to Aug)

Transport from Queenstown to Arrowtown. Safety Briefing and Trail Tips 25 min
Ride 15 km (options to extend 8+ km) 1.5 – 2 hours
Spend time at a winery 30 min – 1 hour (depending on your ride time)
Transport back to Queenstown 30 min
Total Trip Duration 4 hours

Over our summer schedule (Sept to Apr), check-in for this ride package is at our shop at either 9:20 am or 12:50 pm.

Electric Bikes Are Recommended!

We are yet to hear anyone say “I wish I never upgraded to an electric bike”, but we have certainly heard the opposite! Guarantee the good times and have a fun day out there. E-bikes are a game changer and make this ride even better!

merida ebig seven electric bike

Distance and Elevation

Distance: 14.27 km

Elevation Gain: 153 m

Elevation Loss: 198 m

Click here to download the GPX file for this ride.

Bike The Wineries

Other Options

Not the ride for you? Click here to check out our other ride options.

The short video below shows an aerial view of the ride from Arrowtown to the Gibbston Valley: