1.Tobin’s Track, Arrowtown
This wide, gravel hill track behind Arrowtown is a great way to get the heart pumping and be rewarded with glorious views. Keep your dog on the leash, as the track is shared with mountain bikers and can get busy. Hike in winter for a snow-covered wonderland, or in autumn for the finest colour show in the country. Tobin’s is also a great excuse to stop for a post-walk coffee or ice-cream in historic Arrowtown.
Duration: 1 - 1.5 hours return.
Difficulty: Moderate.
How to get there: The track starts from the bottom of Ford Street in Arrowtown (off Centennial Avenue and Bedford Street corner). It starts by crossing the bridge from the carpark.
Tobin's Track Walk. Credit @flashpointphotographynz
2. Bob’s Cove Track to Twelve Mile Delta
Grab your doggo and wind through native bush of Lake Whakatipu, just 15 minutes from town. There are plenty of little beaches if you fancy a dip, and an optional side loop track up to Picnic Point, which you can add on for extra views. Keep your dog on the leash whilst on this track. For a shorter walk, simply turn around and head back to Bob’s Cove carpark when you’re ready.
Duration: 2 - 3 hours one way.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
How to get there: The track starts from Bob’s Cove Carpark, 15 minutes from town on the Glenorchy Rd.
Bob's Cove Walk. Credit @_kerrinaboutyou
3. Fernhill Loop
The challenging Fernhill Loop is one of Queenstown’s most easily accessible dog-friendly walks, as well as a solid workout. Starting just 1.5 kilometres from town, climb through pine and beech forest before reaching tussock (and whopping views) at the highest points. Watch out for mountain bikers at the intersections with biking tracks - they move fast.
Duration: 3 hours 40 minutes.
Difficulty: Challenging.
How to get there: Access is via One Mile Track, which starts at the Queenstown Powerhouse just off the Fernhill Roundabout. Walk from town or park at the Powerhouse.
Fernhill Loop. Credit @joshankins
4. Lake Hayes Walkway
For a mellow but stunning lakeside stroll, grab your pooch and head for Lake Hayes. This track is well maintained and offers endless views, perfect for a sunrise or sunset stroll. Keep your dog on the leash around the wetlands area, as it’s home to the Australian Crested Grebe.
Duration: 2 - 3 hours.
Difficulty: Easy.
How to get there: There are plenty of access points for this one! Those with the best parking are North Lake Hayes picnic area as well as Lake Hayes Pavillion and Showground off SH6.
Lake Hayes Walkway. Credit @ncp007
5. Rock Peak Track
This one’s a little further afield (at the summit of the Crown Range, to be precise), but the views are stellar, and this track offers the only dog friendly access to this mountain. Hike up the 4WD track as it winds through alpine tussock from the car park to the transmitter station at Rock Peak.
Duration: 1.5 hours one way.
Difficulty: Moderate.
How to get there: The track starts from the top of the Crown Saddle. This is the carpark at the top of the Crown Range, about half an hour’s drive from Queenstown towards Wānaka.
Rock Peak Track. Credit @cam.berquist
6. Mt Crichton Loop Track
Climb gently through red beech forest and be rewarded with views of Lake Dispute and Lake Whakatipu. This gorgeous loop track feels like being deep in the backcountry, but it’s ten minutes from town. It’s well worth the wee side trip to Sam Summer’s old gold mining hut to learn a bit more about the area. Remember to keep your dog on the leash!
Duration: 2.5 hours.
Difficulty: Moderate.
How to get there: The car park is 12km from Queenstown on the Glenorchy–Queenstown Road.
Mt Crichton Loop Track. @runovermld