Walter’s Peak Landing to Arrowtown.

March 1, 2025

Another Great Trail - Queenstown Trail

This morning I woke up at Walter Peak Station with no plan for the day. The first task was getting to the ferry wharf about a kilometre from the campground. The boat picking us up was dropping off the workers who commute the 25 minutes across the lake from Queenstown. The boat was very nice and $69, instead of taking the touristy steamer boat called the Earnslaw.

We loaded at 8 and were quickly over in Queenstown as it was just waking up. I walked my bike around the waterfront and then slowly cycled past all the high end shopping located in close proximity. Then I cycled through the public gardens and spotted another Great Trail (Queenstown Trail). I didn’t know about it so I thought about it for a minute and then doubled back into town.

I found a cafe a sat down and enjoyed another flat white with a tasty cinnamon bun. There I decided that sitting idle isn’t really me so I wanted to ride the trail. I got started and soon came across a couple of leprechauns. There was a good energy so I went back and asked for a photo with them. Turns out they were the finish of a 260 km (7 stage) ultramarathon that would be running towards me. For the next 10 km I shouted encouragement to the runners and walkers passing by me the other way.

The trail is fairly easy with a double wide gravel structure and good switchbacks for the climbing sections. Most people riding it are on rental e-bikes from Queenstown. After 20 km I caught up with Derek again who I presume is headed to Arrowtown (TA route) but also on the trail. Instead of going to Arrowtown I continued the other way towards Gibbston. Currently I’m stopped at one of many wineries on route drinking a glass of rose.

I’ll likely continue backwards towards Arrowtown and stop there for the night. The forecast is descent for tomorrow but Monday looks wet. It might be a good idea to stop for a day but I’ll check the weather again closer.

Met these fun ladies at the end of the ultramarathon.

I finished riding in Arrowtown, hit the 4-Square and headed to the only campground to find it completely full. Two bikers rolled in behind me to find the same thing. As we were chatting about where to go next the lady came out and said someone was leaving early so we are splitting the site. And that’s great because it’s almost 3 times the normal rate! Guess I have two new friends :)

Highlights:

-chill morning in Queenstown

-Queenstown bike trail is great, easy but still good

-Arrowtown is a neat little town

-a fine glass of wine and beautiful view

-camping with Jade and Ben

Distance: 68 km and 1006 m elevation gain

Today's ride: 68 km (42 miles)
Total: 3,263 km (2,026 miles)

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