Bike The Basin

Circumnavigate the Whakatipu Basin over 3 Days

This ride is not available just yet, as the new trails are still under construction. For another multi-day riding adventure, please check-out The Ultimate Ride.

Bike The Basin and have a riding adventure to remember! Pedal your way around the Queenstown countryside on purpose-built, gravel bike trails. Link key destinations by bike and be rewarded for your efforts. Explore Arrowtown, Gibbston Wineries, lakes and mountains on this epic 3 day journey.

Itinerary

Day 1: Queenstown To Arrowtown 

Check in to our shop at 9:30 am. After a detailed briefing and bike fitting, you’re ready to depart.

Your journey starts by heading north from Queenstown, along the gorge beside Queenstown Hill, and up to Arthur’s Point. You’ll ride across the historic Edith Cavell bridge – which has spanned the Shotover River since 1919 – before joining the Wharehuanui Trail*. This newest addition to the network traverses along the base of Coronet Peak, with the mountain looming above and to your left.

Making its way eastward, the trail meanders along classic Otago landscapes before it joins the Millbrook Resort. From there you’ll ride along an avenue of trees the short distance to your home for the night: Arrowtown. Enjoy one of the many dining options before a restful night’s sleep.

* Wharehuanui Trail still under construction

Day 2: Arrowtown To Gibbston Valley (25 km ~ 2 hrs) 

Depart your Arrowtown accommodation at your leisure. Spend the morning in Arrowtown, or leave early and maximise your time at the wineries in the Gibbston Valley.

This second day starts by following the beautiful Arrow and Kawarau Rivers downstream to the Kawarau Suspension Bridge – home of the world’s first bungy jump. You’ll continue through to the Gibbston Wine Valley with time to relax and soak in the majestic views with a wine (or two). Another satisfying evening awaits with some truly special dining options in the valley, whether it’s Kinross Cottages, Gibbston Valley Winery, or another of the quaint accommodation options.

Day 3: Gibbston Valley To Queenstown (40 km ~ 4 hrs) 

Depart your Gibbston accommodation at your leisure.

This third and final day of riding completes the loop back to Queenstown. Setting off from the Gibbston Valley, you’ll ride back north to the Morven Ferry. Then joining the Twin Rivers Trail, you’ll follow the contours of the Kawarau and Shotover rivers to the shores of Lake Whakatipu. Expect to see incredible alpine views throughout this section as you traverse the foothills of The Remarkables mountains.

The last stage of the journey is a gentle, flowing trail along the lake’s edge before the finish line back at our shop in central Queenstown. Relax knowing you’ve experienced the best of the spectacular Queenstown Trail.

Logistics

When you check-in to our shop on Day 1, we’ll get you sorted with everything you’ll need. Our team have been riding the trails for years, so know a thing or two about the area. We’ll give you a trail map to help with navigation, though the trail itself is well sign-posted.

Leave your luggage with us and we’ll transfer it each day to your next accommodation.

If you have any mechanical issues while out riding, we’re only a phone call away and our vehicles are usually close-by to lend a hand.

Please note, it is your responsibility to book accomodation for the nights of Day 1 (in Arrowtown) and Day 2 (in Gibbston Valley). See the accommodation tab for more info.

Overview of the Queenstown Trail

Check out this fly-through of the Queenstown Trail. This is the best way to understand the vastness of the trail system and will give some insight into where you will be riding.

Electric Bikes Are Recommended!

We are yet to hear anyone say “I wish I never upgraded to an electric bike”, but we have certainly heard the opposite! Guarantee the good times and have a fun day out there. We’ll even move the charger for you each day.

E-bikes are a game changer and make these 3 days way more fun!

merida ebig seven electric bike

Booking Accommodation

You are responsible for booking your accommodation for this ride package.

There are many excellent choices of accommodation in Queenstown, Arrowtown and the Gibbston Valley. Choose a venue that suits your needs and budget.

During the Christmas and New Year period, the area can be very busy, so booking your accommodation well in advance is advised.

Queenstown Accommodation Ideas

– The Heritage
– The Rees
– Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
– An Accor Property: St Moritz, Novotel or Sofitel

Arrowtown Accommodation Ideas

– The Arrow
– Settlers Motel
– Arrowtown Holiday Park 
– Millbrook Resort

Gibbston Accommodation Ideas

– The War Brick Stone Cottage
– Gibbston Boat House (opposite Kinross)
– Gibbston House
– Kinross Cottages
– Judge and Jury Cottage

Bridges Trail Arrowtown
The Gibbston Tavern, near Queenstown
The Gibbston Tavern, Queenstown
Riding beside epic scenery in the Gibbston Wine Valley
Riding the Queenstown Trail, near the Queenstown Gardens