Queenstown is a walker's paradise and a haven where a biker’s dreams are fulfilled. Across this town and its surroundings are thrilling and scenic routes, coursing through wineries, and winding around the shores of Lake Wakatipu, rolling hills, and green vineyards. Whether you're seeking a laid-back experience winding around the lakes' shores or seeking a more challenging and thrilling adventure on tracks like the Ben Lomond, there are many exciting options to choose from. Here are six of the best walking and biking tours to embark on in Queenstown, New Zealand. Discover more of our handpicked collection of New Zealand Walking Holidays and New Zealand Cycling Tours.
Captivating Walking Tours
Best of Queenstown Tour (Ben Lomond, Routeburn and Milford)
Immerse in the fascinating playground of the world's adventure capital in this sensational Queenstown tour. Highlights include walking on the Ben Lomond track, one of the most challenging walking and hiking experiences in New Zealand, but with stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and Mount Aspiring. The Ben Lomond track is just 7 minutes from Queenstown, with two options - walk to the Ben Lomond Saddle for 3-4 hours (1,326m max elevation), or the summit for 6-8 hours (1,748m max elevation).
The Routeburn track is another highlight walk of the tour, featuring spellbinding views of the Routeburn Falls, Bridal Veil Waterfall, and Humboldt Mountains. Meanwhile, the trip from Queenstown to Glenorchy, where the track begins, is one of the most scenic drives in the country.
Iconic Fiordland Hollyford Track
Embark on this extraordinary adventure that includes walking on the Hollyford Track in Fiordland National Park as it spoils you with nature's finest scenery from the mountains to the sea. The tour takes between 4 - 5 days to complete and includes sections of the Routeburn, Milford, and Kepler tracks, the three great walks of New Zealand. The trek begins from the Hollyford River and bypasses a scintillating medley of natural landscapes ranging from rainforests and snow capped peaks to glaciers, lakes, waterfalls, dunes, and the sea of Martins Bay, where you can walk for 5 km to explore the bay.
The Ultimate Wanaka Luxury Walk
Unravel the best views of the southern Alps, among other bewitching natural scenery on one of Wanaka walking tours and Mount Aspiring National Park. Along the walk, you'll be greeted by mountain streams, waterfalls, glaciers, lush rainforest, enchanting rivers and valleys, and the magnificent lake Wanaka and Matukituki River. In total, you'll be covering 22 km of trails in Mount Aspiring National Park, around Diamond Lake, and Blue Pools, with the best views in the Diamond Lake hike and at the top of the Rocky Mountains.
Biking Tours: On the Saddle to Paradise
Queenstown Trail
The Queenstown Trail is a magnetic playground for both bikers and walkers seeking to fulfil wild outdoor dreams on foot or a saddle. This 130-km scenic trail begins from the shores of Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown, to Gibbston Valley through Arrow town. The trail is as scenic as they come, lavish with charming lakes, imposing mountain vistas, rhythmic flowing rivers, lonely paths, iconic bridges, and lush vineyards. Guided and solo tours are ways to explore the trail, and the beauty and magic of the scenery will endure across each mile.
Wine & Bike
Explore the wine cellars of New Zealand on a self-guided tour beginning from Arrow Junction, 7 minutes from Arrow town. The first lap covers 7 km on the trail that winds along Arrow and Kawarau Rivers down to the iconic bungy jumping destination in the Kawarau Suspension Bridge. The next lap begins from here and threads along the Gibbston River Trail, with a diversity of wineries along its paths for stopovers, picnics, and lunch breaks. The trip in total will cover around 17 km for the full-day tour, and 7 km for the half-day version.
Around the Mountain Track
For those who prefer two wheels, the Around the Mountain Track presents an unparalleled biking experience. A contender for Aotearoa New Zealand’s most gorgeous Great Ride, this long but leisurely trail passes through the Southland’s rural heartland and majestic mountain country around Queenstown. Riders traverse diverse terrains, from lush forests to serene lakesides, all while being surrounded by the towering peaks that define the region's skyline, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Otago Central Rail Trail
The Otago Central Rail Trail is a New Zealand’s original Great Ride following an old railway line through scenic, big-sky country dotted with a series of sweet wee towns. The easy graded biking trail can be accessed from Queenstown for a day ride or multi-day ride (suggest at least four days for the full journey). It cyclists an amazing riding experience - a classic blend of scenic splendour, fascinating history, friendly towns, and delicious local cuisine and wines.
The Portal to a Dreamy World of Adventures in Queenstown
Craft your own version of a paradisiacal adventure on the great outdoors of Queenstown with these recommended tours. Feel the magic of each moment, savour unbelievable views of nature, bask in the scenic beauty of trails, and create memories off the road.
