Arrowtown to Queenstown

Your adventure begins with a quick 25-minute shuttle from the tour operator’s shop to historic Arrowtown, a charming relic of New Zealand’s Gold Rush era. Take some time to explore the historic town or grab a coffee for an energy boost before setting off on your 25 km self-guided ride back to Queenstown.

During winter, it's best to follow the Wharehuanui Trail from Arrowtown to Queenstown, riding through rolling farmland and beautiful countryside tracks with panoramic alpine views and scenic stretches alongside the Shotover River. Along the way, you’ll cross the historic Edith Cavell Bridge and have the option to stop at Gantleys Tavern or Canyon Brewing for a well-earned break before finishing your ride in central Queenstown.

The well-maintained gravel trail takes approximately 3–3.5 hours to complete and includes several moderate climbs, making it best suited to confident riders with a reasonable level of fitness. E-bikes are highly recommended for those looking for a more relaxed experience, particularly on the hills.

Please note that some sections of the route travel along roads shared with vehicles, including the single-lane Edith Cavell Bridge, so extra care is required. A diversion is also in place on the Frankton Track until the end of 2026 (approximately 4 km). The recommended route is to return via the Wharehuanui Trail rather than using the Frankton footpath. Please ensure you return your bike to the Searle Lane store before it closes at 5:00 pm in summer or 4:30 pm in winter.