This is a great full-day ride option for confident and capable riders wanting to start right from Queenstown, without the need for a shuttle to the start. Following a scenic route that weaves along Lake Whakatipu, past rivers, over swing bridges, and through open countryside, this ride offers versatile finish points in either Arrowtown or the Gibbston Valley – with a return shuttle included from wherever you finish.

It’s an ideal pick for independent riders, families with teens, or groups who want a bit more of a challenge – especially on E-bikes.

What to Expect

Start your day by checking in at our Queenstown shop, where you’ll be fitted with:

• A quality mountain bike or E-bike
• Helmet and map
• A full trail briefing with route options and safety tips

From there, you’ll begin your self-guided journey:

• Ride along the lakefront trail through Frankton
• Connect to the Twin Rivers Trail, riding beside the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers
• Continue to Morven Ferry intersection, where you can choose to: – Head north to Arrowtown for alpine views and heritage charm – Ride southeast into Gibbston Valley for a longer trail experience through open countryside

Once you reach your chosen destination, we’ll collect you by shuttle and return you to Queenstown – no need to ride back!

Key Details

• Distance: – Queenstown to Arrowtown: ~36 km – Queenstown to Gibbston: ~45 km (to the end)
• Trail Surface: Wide, well-maintained gravel trails (mostly Grade 2, some short Grade 3 sections)
• Riding Time: 3.5-5 hours depending on fitness, destination, and breaks=
• Difficulty: Moderate – best for confident riders or families with older kids
• E-bikes: Highly recommended for comfort, especially on the hills
• Includes: Bike or E-bike hire, helmet, map, trail briefing, return shuttle from your chosen finish point
• Not suitable for very young children unless riding in a trailer or tow-along setup

For Confident Riders

• Starts in Queenstown – no morning shuttle required
• Choose your preferred endpoint – Arrowtown or Gibbston
• Explore at your own pace with no backtracking
• Stunning scenery the whole way – from lakefront to rivers to alpine valleys
• E-bikes help keep the whole family together, even with varying fitness levels
• A great challenge for active kids and teens looking for a full-day ride

What if the Weather Changes?

The trail passes through exposed alpine terrain, so weather conditions can change quickly. We assess the weather each morning, and if you’re unsure, feel free to call us 45 minutes to 1 hour before the shuttle departs. If the conditions are unsafe for riding, we’ll do our best to reschedule. If that’s not possible, we can offer a refund (minus a 3% transaction fee).

More Terms and Conditions here

Final Tips

• Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and layered clothing
• Allow plenty of time – even confident riders can take 4+ hours
• E-bikes are recommended for families, mixed fitness groups, or anyone wanting to focus on fun
• Not recommended for young children riding independently unless they’re used to longer rides on gravel terrain
•  Terms and Conditions here