Arrowtown to Queenstown Full Day Self Guided Biking Adventure

5.0 / 5
5 reviews
50+ booked
Around The Basin Bike Queenstown
  • Begin with a 25-minute shuttle from Queenstown to historic Arrowtown
  • Get equipped with bike, helmet, map, and trip briefing before cycling
  • Ride a 36 km self-guided trail back to Queenstown in 3.5–4 hours
  • Follow scenic Grade 2–3 gravel trails beside Arrow River and Twin Rivers
  • Take in alpine views, river crossings, and the historic Old Shotover Bridge
  • Stop at local cafés or breweries along the way for a relaxing break

What to expect

Start your self-guided ride with a 25-minute bus transfer from Around The Basin’s shop in Queenstown to the historic village of Arrowtown. Once there, we’ll get you fully set up with a mountain bike or E-bike, helmet, trail map, and a detailed briefing to ensure you’re ready to go. Then it’s over to you to enjoy a scenic 36 km ride back to Queenstown at your own pace. Expect 3.5 – 4 hours of riding on hilly terrain, following well-maintained gravel trails (Grade 2–3) with spectacular alpine views, river crossings, and lakeside cruising. The route follows the Arrow River, Twin Rivers, and Lake Whakatipu trails, with highlight including the historic Old Shotover Bridge. Ideal for confident riders with a good level of fitness, with optional stops at cafés or a brewery along the way.

Twin River Trail
Cycle the scenic Twin River Trail, following winding gravel paths beside sparkling alpine waterways
Southern Discoveries Swing Bridge
Cross the iconic Southern Discoveries Swing Bridge, suspended gracefully above the turquoise Kawarau River
Remarkables Views
Enjoy uninterrupted Remarkables views, showcasing dramatic peaks contrasting beautifully against the deep blue lake
Queenstown Gardens
Explore the lush Queenstown Gardens, a tranquil green space with colorful blooms and serene trails

Good to know

Route details:

  • 36 km gravel trails via the Twin Rivers Trail
  • Includes three notable climbs in the middle section
  • Best for confident riders with moderate–high fitness
  • Many riders choose E-bikes for an easier experience

Weather policy:

  • Conditions change quickly in Queenstown’s mountains
  • Call 45–60 mins before departure if unsure
  • If weather unsuitable: we’ll reschedule or provide a refund.

Food & drink stops:

  • Not a winery route
  • Options include Boatshed Café, Wet Jacket Wines (floating cellar door), Altitude Brewing
  • For winery rides, check out our Bike The Wineries options

Reviews

5.0 / 5
Fantastic
5 reviews
Services offered
5.0
Value for money
5.0
Quality of facility
5.0
Safety measures
5.0
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All With photos English only
Review for: Hardtail Mountain Bikes

I love it so much!! Got to self navigate back on my own time from Arrowtown to Queenstown and explore and take so many pictures.

Helpful
Review for: Electric Hardtail Mountain Bikes

Very fun, highly recommended! You will take a tour bus to Arrowtown, and then everyone will go their separate ways to cycle. You need to find a way back to the bicycle shop in Queenstown before 4:30 PM. We cycled the Arrow River Bridge Trail and then the Twin Rivers Trail, completing it in 6.5 hours. Highly recommended to try bungee jumping and canyon swing at the end of the Arrow River Trail, it's very exciting, a must-try!

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Helpful
Review for: Electric Hardtail Mountain Bikes

good trip nice staff good trip nice staff good trip nice good trip nice staff good trip nice staff

Helpful
Review for: Electric Hardtail Mountain Bikes

Initially, we chose the Arrowtown - Queenstown package, but fortunately, we changed our route to Gibston Valley Winery, which is only 15km away. For those aged 50+ and not frequent cyclists, this 15km route is quite sufficient. The views along the way are amazing. Out of the 8 e-bikes we rented, one was not functioning properly. Luckily, the problematic e-bike was used by a friend who is a cyclist, so it was still quite safe.

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Helpful
Review for: Electric Hardtail Mountain Bikes

Had a great time and overall experience was amazing.

Helpful

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