Discover Queenstown’s newest gem—the Wharehuanui Trail, known by locals as the "Ale Trail." This 13 km Grade 2 (easy) ride links Arrowtown to Arthur’s Point and offers a fun, relaxed way to soak up the region’s best brews, brunches, and backdrops. It’s a perfect half-day adventure for foodies, beer lovers, or anyone keen on an easy cruise through jaw-dropping scenery.
Start in Arrowtown: Where History Meets Brunch
Kick off in Arrowtown—hands down the most picturesque town in New Zealand. Born from the 1860s gold rush, it looks like something straight out of an old western movie, with preserved buildings, charming shopfronts, and cobbled laneways. Grab breakfast and coffee at one of the many cafés before setting off.
You’ll roll past Millbrook Resort, one of the top golf resorts in the country. Think manicured fairways, alpine vistas, and that luxury-lifestyle buzz.
The Ride Itself
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- Distance: 13 km one way
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- Time: 1.5–2 hours to Aurthur's Point or 2.5-3 hours back into Queenstown
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- Difficulty: Grade 2 (easy) Small Grade 3 into Canyon Brewery
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- Trail Type: Smooth gravel, gently undulating and beginner-friendly
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- Recommended Ride: E-bike. You’ll cover ground faster and spend more time enjoying stops.
Ale Trail Highlights
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- Canyon Brewing – Killer riverside location in Arthur’s Point with great beers and solid food.
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- Shotover Jet – Arrive between 12–1pm if you want to book a ride in advance. A wild, fast-paced adventure through narrow canyons—absolutely iconic.
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- Gantley’s Tavern – Amazing beer garden, great food, and plenty of character.
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- Searchlight Brewery – For those continuing into Queenstown, this is a top spot to wrap up your ride.
Pick-Up & Ride Options
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- Pick-Up Option: Finish your ride at Shotover Jet and get picked up at 3:00pm or 4:40pm. Small charge applies. Hot tip: if you’ve been sampling beers, don’t attempt the 200m road stretch past Shotover Jet—jump in the van. Call/Text us 1 hour before.
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- Finish at the Shop: Cruise back to our Going Blue shop at 36 / 159 Gorge Road Retail Park (free parking all day).
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- Queenstown Gardens Option: You can also finish up at the Queenstown Gardens by 4:30pm if you're continuing through via established bike paths.
Final Thoughts
The Ale Trail is a local favourite: a cruisy ride with big scenery, great drinks, and just enough adventure to keep it interesting. Whether you're here for hops, history, or horsepower on the river, this self-guided tour hits all the right notes.
Ready to roll? Book your self-guided e-bike adventure now with Going Blue.