Wanaka To Queenstown Trail

Stretching 120 kilometres between two of New Zealand's most stunning lakeside towns, the Wanaka to Queenstown Trail is a multi-day cycling and walking journey that weaves through dramatic mountain scenery, historic gold-mining settlements, and along the turquoise waters of the Clutha and Kawarau rivers. This well-formed trail offers a perfect blend of adventure and accessibility, with gentle gradients and a mix of purpose-built paths and quiet country roads. Whether you pedal the whole route over two to four days or sample a section as a day ride, you'll experience the raw beauty of Central Otago at your own pace.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Wanaka to Albert Town: Start with a gentle lakeside ride from Wanaka, then follow the Clutha River through the historic Outlet area and onto the Cardrona River Trail.
• Cardrona River Trail: Pedal through the charming Cardrona Valley, where you can stop at the Cardrona Hotel – a historic gold-rush pub – or explore the Cardrona Distillery.
• Arrowtown River Track: Detour into the gold-mining village of Arrowtown, with its preserved Chinese settlement, boutique shops, and excellent café scene. The track follows the Arrow River under a canopy of poplars and willows.
• Kawarau River Gorge: The trail hugs the dramatic Kawarau Gorge, passing the iconic AJ Hackett Bungy at the Kawarau Bridge – the world's first commercial bungy site. Watch jumpers from the viewing platform or take the plunge yourself.
• Lake Hayes Loop: A short detour to Lake Hayes offers a serene picnic spot with reflections of The Remarkables mountain range.
• Queenstown Gardens & Lakefront: The trail ends at Queenstown's lakefront, where you can reward yourself with a Fergburger or a craft beer at one of the lakeside bars.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most cyclists allow two to three days to complete the full trail, staying overnight at one of the accommodation options along the route such as Cardrona or Arrowtown. If you have only a day, the most scenic section is from Arrowtown to Queenstown via the Kawarau Gorge (about 30 km, 3–4 hours). Walkers can tackle shorter sections, such as the Lake Hayes loop (2 hours) or the Arrowtown River Track (1.5 hours). The trail is well signposted and suitable for most fitness levels, with e-bike hire available in both Wanaka and Queenstown.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Glenorchy – A stunning 45-minute drive from Queenstown, this lakeside village is the gateway to the Routeburn Track and offers epic views of the Dart River and Mount Aspiring.
• Cardrona Valley – Beyond the trail, explore the Cardrona Ski Field in winter or hike the Roaring Meg Pack Track in summer.
• Wanaka – Spend a day on the lake, hike to Rob Roy Glacier, or visit the famous #ThatWanakaTree.
• Arrowtown – Immerse yourself in gold-rush history, then walk the Arrow River Trail or try gold panning.
• Queenstown Hill – A steep but rewarding one-hour walk offering panoramic views of the town, lake, and mountains.

Please check official sources for current details.