The world-class Arrowtown trail network embodies a vast range of walks and backcountry hikes appealing to all ages and fitness levels.

“The trails come into their own in summer with people getting out experiencing these special areas that are right on Arrowtown’s doorstep,” says Arrowtown Promotion and Business Association manager Nicky Busst. “The network is world renowned with significant investment having gone into developing a range of trail gradients for all levels.”

The Mahu Whenua trails that traverse the higher reaches of neighbouring farms including Motatapu, Mount Soho, Glencoe and Coronet Peak stations offer longer high-country hikes.

“Added to this with over 15 listed walks featuring mountain, river or lake views, Arrowtown is becoming a walking and biking mecca with the town a hub for events like The Wild, The Backyard Ultra and Motutapu races.”

Family Focused

Gold panning in the Arrow River is a summer highlight for visitors and families.

“The Lakes District Museum hires gold pans along with detailed trail maps that show the start and end points for local trails,” says Arrowtown Promotion and Business Association manager Nicky Busst. “The museum is open daily between 8.30am and 5.00 pm (except Christmas Day) offering a glimpse into the region’s historic gold mining past with interactive displays, an information centre, gift shop and art gallery.”

Arrowtown Walking Guide

Arrowtown Millennium Walk: a wide, easy loop walkway along the banks of the Arrow River

Bush Creek: one to two-hour gentle stroll leaving from the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement

Mt Beetham: one to two-hour hike with elevation providing stunning 360° views at the top

Home of Bike Trails

With over 130km of off-road mountain bike trails linking Arrowtown to Queenstown and Gibbston the Queenstown Trail network offers options suitable for all confidence levels.

Arrowtown is the central hub for the network developed by the Queenstown Trails Trust .

“Arrowtown is a key junction point for starting or finishing a ride and an ideal stopping off point for lunch or snacks,” says Arrowtown Promotion and Business Association manager Nicky Busst. “The town welcomes bikers on a daily basis with the trails naturally linking to the town.”

Three of the Best

Coronet Loop Track: Arrowtown’s newest trail with over 50 kilometres of spectacular backcountry, singletrack trails through goldmining heritage areas has quickly gained a firm following with local riders. Good fitness and skill level required

Arrow River Bridges Trail:  An easy one hour ride from Arrowtown almost entirely off-road beside rivers and lakes to Lake Hayes and beyond to Queenstown. Alternatively ride alongside the Arrow River and over the suspension bridges to Arrow Junction and loop back to Arrowtown for a shorter return ride

Gibbston: Ride from Arrowtown to Gibbston and visit the famous Gibbston wineries for lunch among the vines and wine sampling. Bikes are available for hire in Arrowtown with return vehicle pick-up options