Opening September 2026
Bike the Kawarau Gorge Trail
Full day package with Bike Hire & Shuttle Transport
Distance
32-50kms
Full day
3-4.5hrs cycling
Grade 2-3
Easy-Intermediate
Includes
Bike Hire & Shuttles
Opening in September 2026, the Kawarau Gorge Trail is set to be an incredible new addition to the Queenstown and Central Otago biking scene.
Winding through dramatic river gorges and golden tussock hills, it serves up stunning alpine and river views the whole way – so don’t forget your camera.
This new trail also creates an exciting link between Queenstown and Cromwell, with easy connections onto the Lake Dunstan, Roxburgh Gorge, and Clutha Gold trails. It opens up some fantastic multi-day riding options across the wider Otago region.
Designed to suit a wide range of riders, the trail features smooth surfaces and mostly gentle gradients, making it ideal for families, casual riders, and e-bikers. With flexible access points along the route, it’s easy to tailor your ride to fit your plans.
Highlights
- Opening September 2026 near Queenstown
- Incredible gorge, river, and alpine scenery
- Links Queenstown to Central Otago’s trail network
- Suitable for families and e-bike users
- Short rides or multi-day adventures
Photo Stops
What's included?
All packages include
- Bike Hire
- Bike Shuttle
- Helmet
- Drink Bottle Holder
- Bike Toolkit
- Small Panniers
- Map
What to bring
Some essentials to bring on your ride
- Water Bottle
- Sunscreen & Sunglasses
- Phone / Camera
- A snack
- Dress in light layers including a jacket
- Comfortable Shoes (trainers are perfect)
FAQs
The new Kawarau Gorge Trail will be opening on 19th September 2026. There will be an official opening event on Saturday 19th September, with tours starting on Monday 21st September.
The trail will be approximately 32km of well-graded gravel and compacted trail, along with exciting board walk sections. If you want a longer ride you can start by the bungy bridge in Gibbston Valley and ride all the way into Cromwell, taking it to approximately 50kms.
Expect 2-4hrs depending on fitness, stops and whether you are riding an ebike or mountain bike. If ridden as part of a multi-day trip linking to Cromwell, Lake Dunstan, Roxburgh Gorge or Clutha Gold, plan 2–5 days depending on your itinerary.
Definitely. E-bikes are recommended, especially for less experienced riders or those looking to tackle the climbs and longer rides connecting to other trails.
Families can enjoy the trail, though assess young children’s ability for longer distances and rougher sections.
There are planned rest/viewing areas on the trail plus cafés, shops, and accommodation are available at the start and end of the trail. Toilets will be available near the start and end of the trail, plus part way through near the Goldfield’s Mining Centre.
All our packages
- 173km
- 3-5 days
- 186km
- 3-5 days
- 23km
- 2-2.5hrs