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The 15-kilometre link between Arrowtown and Queenstown follows the Arrow River and Lake Hayes before joining the Kawarau River corridor into town. The route combines sealed paths, compacted gravel and a short road section, with clear waymarking and three distinct landscape zones. This guide maps the waypoints, surface transitions and navigation decisions that define the ride.
Quick answer
The arrowtown to queenstown bike trail map shows a 15-kilometre route beginning at McDonnell Road in Arrowtown and ending at the Queenstown waterfront, following the Arrow River, Lake Hayes Edge and Kawarau River. The trail is waymarked at every junction with yellow Queenstown Trail markers. Three surface types appear: sealed path from Arrowtown to Lake Hayes (5 km), compacted gravel through the Gibbston River corridor (7 km), and a 500-metre road section on Lake Hayes–Arrowtown Road where the path transitions.
The trail network across the Wakatipu Basin carries more than 200,000 rider-days each year, yet the Arrowtown-Queenstown segment remains the least-documented for navigation. Unlike the better-mapped Gibbston Wine Trail or Frankton Arm loop, this route crosses three distinct landforms—river terrace, lakeshore and gorge corridor—each with different surface conditions and waymarking density. The arrowtown to queenstown bike trail map divides into three zones. The first five kilometres follow the Arrow River on a sealed, flat path from McDonnell Road to the southern shore of Lake Hayes, passing beneath willows and across two timber bridges. The second zone, from Lake Hayes to the Kawarau River junction, introduces compacted gravel and a gradual descent through open tussock country; waymarkers appear every 400 metres, and the surface remains rideable on road tyres in dry conditions. The third zone hugs the Kawarau River gorge on a narrow bench cut into schist cliffs, with steeper grades and exposed sections where wind funnels upstream in the afternoon. Navigation confusion concentrates at four junctions. The Lake Hayes loop diverges east 800 metres past the Arrowtown trailhead; riders continuing toward Queenstown bear right, following the yellow arrow rather than the blue lake-circuit marker. The second decision appears at the Gibbston Valley Winery spur, where a side trail branches north; the main route continues straight, descending toward the Kawarau Bridge. At the bridge itself, the trail crosses to the river's true left via a dedicated cycle lane, then rejoins the off-road path 200 metres downstream. The final junction sits at Frankton, where riders can either follow the waterfront into central Queenstown or branch onto the Remarkables Trail toward the airport. Elevation change totals 180 metres, with a net descent of 60 metres from Arrowtown (380 m) to Queenstown (320 m). The steepest pitch, a 12 percent grade, appears in the Kawarau gorge 3 kilometres before Queenstown, where the path climbs briefly to bypass a rock buttress. Riders accustomed to the flat Gibbston Wine Trail often underestimate this section, which demands low gears and steady cadence. The entire Queenstown Trail network remains open year-round, with no closures for winter or maintenance, though spring snowmelt can create puddles on the gravel sections between August and October.
“Navigation confusion concentrates at four junctions, each marked but requiring riders to distinguish between route colours and directional arrows.”
The Arrowtown to Queenstown trail suits riders of all levels and takes 2–4 hours depending on pace and stops. The 15-kilometre route follows the Arrow River through gorge scenery and lakeside paths before finishing at Queenstown Bay.
Begin at the Arrowtown trailhead and ride 5 km through willows and schist cliffs along the Arrow River—mostly flat gravel, allow 20–30 minutes. The section ends at the historic Kawarau Bungy Bridge where you can pause to watch jumpers.
Continue 4 km through open river flats toward Gibbston, passing the confluence of the Arrow and Kawarau rivers. This gentle stretch takes 20–25 minutes and offers views across the basin.
Climb gradually for 3 km to reach Lake Hayes, the steepest section with around 80 metres of elevation gain—allow 30–45 minutes. The lake loop adds another 8 km if you detour; otherwise ride the eastern shore toward Shotover.
Descend 6 km on sealed path past Shotover Country and into Frankton—20–30 minutes of easy riding with views over Queenstown and The Remarkables. Stop at the marina for water or a rest before the final push.
Ride the final 3 km lakeside trail into central Queenstown, mostly flat and sealed, taking 15–20 minutes. The trail ends at Queenstown Bay near the pier and gardens.
The Queenstown Trail is located within the Wakatipu Basin, with the Arrowtown trailhead situated near the Chinese Settlement. Accessing the trailheads is most conveniently achieved by road via local transport or private vehicle.
State Highway 6 to Arrowtown
Orbus Route 2 to Arrowtown
Direct transfer to Arrowtown
Many riders choose to utilize local shuttle services to reach the Arrowtown trailhead, allowing for a one-way ride back toward Queenstown. Parking is available at the trailheads, though spaces can fill quickly during peak hours.
The best arrival window is 08:00–16:00 to utilize optimal daylight hours and cooler temperatures for riding. Planning your visit around shoulder seasons provides the most temperate climate for navigating the Queenstown Trail.
Warm, dry; 20°C to 25°C. High UV levels require sun protection.
Long daylight hours allow for extended rides but trail sections can be busy.
Cool, crisp; 10°C to 18°C. Stable weather.
The changing foliage provides clear visibility and comfortable conditions for cycling.
Cold, frost; 0°C to 8°C. Potential ice.
Shorter days mean less time for travel; trail surfaces may be icy or muddy.
Mild, variable; 8°C to 16°C. Frequent wind.
Temperatures rise and landscape turns green; prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Verdict: The best time to visit is during the shoulder months of April or October, arriving within the 08:00–16:00 window.
The Queenstown Trail is a public trail network accessible to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You may access the route at your convenience.
The trail is accessible year-round without booking, but proper preparation ensures a safe and comfortable ride.
Everything you need to know about arrowtown to queenstown bike trail map
While digital versions are convenient, carrying a physical arrowtown to queenstown bike trail map is recommended for offline reliability. You can find detailed guides on the official website to assist with navigation across the Wakatipu Basin.
Most riders spend several hours completing the route, depending on their pace and how many stops they make for sightseeing. As of 2026, riders are encouraged to plan their journey according to the 08:00–16:00 arrival window for the best light.
Access to the public trail network is completely free of charge. There is an entrance fee of 0 NZD for all visitors using the pathways.
The best arrival window is 08:00–16:00 to ensure optimal daylight hours and cooler temperatures. Following the arrowtown to queenstown bike trail map during these times helps avoid the midday heat and maximizes visibility.
The trails are generally accessible for families, though some sections vary in difficulty. Always check the current trail conditions before departure to ensure the chosen path matches the skill level of your group.
Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and layers of clothing to account for changing weather. Having a reliable arrowtown to queenstown bike trail map and a repair kit will help you manage the gravel paths and river crossings safely.