Famous for their picturesque lakes and magnificent mountains, the Queenstown Lakes District and neighbouring Central Otago are a magnet for cyclists and the region's extensive network of trails is continuously being improved and expanded.
Flying in with your bike will allow you to choose from a vast choice of adventures. Take on the world-class mountain biking trails, meander from Arrowtown to the Gibbston Valley wineries, tackle the multi-day Otago Central Rail Trail or the thrilling new Lake Dunstan Trail – the possibilities are endless. But how to choose?
The Queenstown Trail, which criss-crosses the Whakatipu Basin, is a great place to start. You can ride directly on to it from Queenstown Airport and the 130-kilometre network of cycleways passes through beautiful countryside, skirting around lakes and along rivers, connecting the communities of this area. It has been designed for everybody to enjoy and it's free! It can be ridden in short sections or in more demanding full-day forays.
If mountain biking is your thing, this information will help you plan your trip. You'll find your tribe at the Queenstown Mountain Bike Club.
A little further afield, there is plenty of biking for novices and experts alike around Wānaka and the Upper Clutha area.
The 152-kilometre Otago Central Rail Trail is New Zealand's original Great Ride and can be ridden in any season. Running from Clyde to Middlemarch, it follows an old railway line, so has a gentle gradient and is entirely offroad, making it ideal for recreational cyclists.
Popular with those looking for a new adventure, the Lake Dunstan Great Ride links the heritage towns of Cromwell and Clyde and features an 86-metre suspension bridge and dramatic rock walls. However, it also covers some remote and challenging terrain, so is only recommended for confident, experienced cyclists. If you are considering this ride, first read this safety information and watch this short video.
Central Otago also boasts the Roxburgh Gorge Trail and the Clutha Gold Trail.
Choose your adventure, then strap on your helmet and get pedalling!
