The Arrow River Bridges Ride from Arrowtown: A Campervan Traveller’s Guide

Quick summary: The Arrow River Bridges ride is the highlight of the Queenstown Trail, and campervan travellers can start it straight from Arrowtown’s holiday park. The trail follows the Arrow River out of the village through a schist gorge, crossing a series of dramatic bridges, including a long suspension bridge high above the river, to the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge, home of the world’s first commercial bungy. From there, the Gibbston River Trail continues to the wineries, with shuttles to bring you back to the campervan or motorhome.

At a glance
Start	Arrowtown
Finish	The Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge, or on to Gibbston
Distance	Around 13 km to the Kawarau bridge; around 25 km to the far end of Gibbston
Grade	Easy to intermediate, with some short climbs
Time	Around 2–4 hours, longer with wine stops
Tours	E-bike tours

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What is the ride like?

From Arrowtown, the trail follows the river downstream through farmland and willows, then enters a narrow gorge, crossing the river on a series of bridges that give the ride its name, including a long suspension bridge high above the water. After climbing out of the gorge, it runs across open country to the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge, where bungy jumpers leap towards the river below. From there, the Gibbston River Trail follows the Kawarau River to the cellar doors.

How hard is the ride?

Mostly easy, but with some short, steep climbs and descents near the bridges, which some riders walk. The surface is well-formed gravel. An e-bike makes the climbs much easier and is a popular choice. Children who are confident riders can manage the trail, though younger ones may need to walk some sections.

Where can you stop along the way?

Stop	What’s there
The Arrow River	Willows and river views just outside the village
The suspension bridge	A long, high crossing above the gorge
The Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge	The bungy bridge, with a café and viewing platform
The Gibbston River Trail	Riverside riding to the cellar doors
Gibbston wineries	Tastings and lunch among the vines

How do you get back to the RV at Arrowtown?

Most riders take a shuttle back from the Kawarau bridge or Gibbston. Many bike hire operators include the shuttle in the hire, collecting you and the bikes at an agreed time. Alternatively, ride back the way you came, or ride on to Queenstown via the trail network. Book the shuttle ahead in busy periods. See bike hire and shuttles.

Can you combine the ride with wine tasting?

Yes, and it’s one of the most popular ways to spend a day in Arrowtown. Ride to Gibbston, stop at a couple of cellar doors, have lunch, and take the shuttle back. Pace your tastings and remember you’ll still be riding. See bike and wine to Gibbston.

What should you bring?

Water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, a light jacket and a helmet. Bike hire usually includes a helmet, lock and repair kit. There’s little shade in places, so take extra water on hot days.

What are the guided options?

Guided e-bike tours and bike tours handle bikes, shuttles and timing, and some include wine tastings and lunch.

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Frequently Asked Questions