Are you looking to experience Queenstown’s magnificent scenery and exhilarating outdoor activities? One of the best ways to do both is on one of the region’s thrilling mountain bike tracks. Leading Kiwi rider Kate Fluker, loves living in the area for this very reason. “Everyone is active”, she says. “It’s just part and parcel of living here.”
There are plenty of cycling tracks on offer in Queenstown, including the 130-kilometre Queenstown Trail, which covers pictureseque locations including Lake Wakatipu, Lake Hayes, Arrowtown and Gibbston. Kate praises the town’s ‘let’s do this’ attitude. “Queenstown Trails and the Queenstown Mountain Bike Club are really pro-active in getting trails all around the mountains,” she says.
Experience some of Kate’s favourite trails:
7 Mile Reserve
Located 7 miles from Queenstown, this purpose built network of single tracks is one of the best in New Zealand. The 7 Mile Reserve tracks have it all; loops, berms, jumps and banked corners, providing riders with plenty of jumping opportunities. Man-made clatter bridges, skinnies and log rides add even more excitement.
Moke Lake
With stunning scenery over the lake, this track is best ridden in Autumn when the rich browns and oranges are at their prime. Moke Lake is a great family track with a moderate difficulty level. There are a few obstacles including bridges, sties and dips in the track that offer a bit of a twist.
Phoenix
For the adventurer at heart, Phoenix is a dream come true. This is a fast-paced track with plenty of sharp turns and twists that creates a rollercoaster-like experience. Slow down for an unreal outlook over the lake and the Remarkables mountain range, and remember to breathe in as you enter a section of native bush with switchbacks.
Queenstown - Gibbston - Arrowtown trail
Experience the best that Queenstown has to offer in this family-friendly ride. Visit the historic Kawarau Bridge, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Gibbston and zig-zag along the Arrow River. If you want to get on the bike but aren’t sure where to start, the Arrowtown trail is a good option.
Moonlight
Another particularly scenic track, Moonlight is ideal if you’re looking for some hill work. A steep climb from Arthur’s Point towards the Ben Lomond Saddle is worth the workout for the breathtaking views, made all the more beautiful in the soft light of Autumn. View the alpine backcountry terrain as you cross this technically-challenging track.
Queenstown to Jacks Point - Queenstown Trail
Not for the fainthearted, this track starts gently but escalates once pass the Queenstown Golf Course. A winding, narrow trail requires careful navigation and extremely steep descents and climbs are sure to get the blood pumping. Experience the incredible scenery of Middle Earth as you pass through wild tussocks, all against the backdrop of Cecil and Walter Peak. The perfect ride for those seeking a track off the beaten path. Explore Queenstown to Jacks Point.