Queenstown & Arrowtown: Twin Rivers Bike Tour with Shuttle

Summary

Arrowtown’s gold trails, riverside rides, mountain air and local stories

You’ll glide from Arrowtown to Queenstown on top-notch eBikes along riverside trails, crossing historic bridges and pausing at lakeside views only locals seem to know about. Expect honest Kiwi stories from your guide, plenty of fresh air, and moments you’ll want to stop for—plus shuttle pickup so you don’t have to worry about getting back.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to start my morning in Arrowtown with that cold mountain air biting at my cheeks — the kind that wakes you up better than coffee. Our guide, Jamie, handed me a helmet and grinned like he knew what was coming. I picked an eBike (honestly, best decision), and we set off down this gravel path where the grass was still wet from last night’s rain. You could smell wood smoke from someone’s chimney drifting over the old gold rush cottages. The first bridge creaked under us and Jamie said something about how miners used to cross here carrying dreams heavier than their packs. I tried to picture it but mostly just focused on not wobbling off the side.

The Twin Rivers trail winds for 35km — sounds long but on these bikes it’s more like gliding than grinding. We passed a couple of locals walking dogs who gave us a nod (Kiwis are friendly but not in-your-face). There’s this moment when you come around a bend and suddenly Lake Wakatipu just opens up in front of you — blue as paint, mountains all jagged behind it. It was quiet except for river water gurgling somewhere below. I stopped there longer than I meant to, just breathing in the cold and watching clouds move over the peaks. Lunch was at a café by the trail; nothing fancy but somehow that sandwich tasted better after all that riding.

Somewhere near Shotover River, Jamie pointed out an old bridge where people used to pan for gold — he had stories about wild nights in Arrowtown back then, though I’m pretty sure he exaggerated half of them. My hands were starting to feel numb by then but the sun came out for a bit and everything looked sharper. The last stretch into Queenstown is mostly downhill (thank god), and you can hear jetboats roaring on the river if you listen for it. We rolled into town muddy but happy, legs buzzing from the ride.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bike tour from Arrowtown to Queenstown

• Start ride on Twin River trail
• Cross seven bridges
• Pass three rivers
• Stop at historic Lower Shotover Bridge
• View Shotover River
• Enjoy Lake Wakatipu scenery
• Visit charming gold rush village
• Take breaks at cafes
• End tour in Queenstown

Top questions

How long is the bike ride from Arrowtown to Queenstown?

The Twin Rivers trail covers about 35 kilometers between Arrowtown and Queenstown.

Is an eBike included in this tour?

Yes, you can choose between a premium pedal bike or an eBike for your ride.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

Yes, door-to-door shuttle service is included for direct bookings.

Are there stops or cafes along the way?

Yes, there are several bridges, scenic stops, and cafes along the route.

What is the minimum height requirement for eBikes?

You must be at least 150cm tall to ride an eBike on this tour.

Is this bike tour suitable for beginners?

The trail is broad with simple navigation; eBikes are recommended unless you're an experienced rider.

Can I bring my service animal?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What sights will I see during the ride?

You’ll see Lake Wakatipu, Shotover River, historic bridges, and pass through Arrowtown’s gold rush village.

What’s included

Your day includes a premium Giant or Trek bike (eBike or pedal), helmet, map with local tips for stops along the way, locks and repair kit just in case something goes sideways mid-ride—and return shuttle transport between Queenstown and Arrowtown so you can relax after all those kilometers.