Mountain Biking Near Arrowtown: Trails and Bike Parks from a Campervan Base

Quick summary: For campervan travellers who like their riding rougher, Arrowtown sits at the edge of some of New Zealand’s best mountain biking. Singletrack climbs into the hills behind the village, old miners’ tracks lead into the backcountry, and lift-served bike parks around Queenstown offer gravity riding in the warmer months. Park the campervan or motorhome at the holiday park, hire a mountain bike in the village, and ride from your door.

At a glance
Local trails	Loops in the hills above Arrowtown and along old miners’ tracks
Backcountry	Rides towards Macetown and the Arrow River’s upper valley
Bike parks	Lift-served riding at Coronet Peak and in Queenstown in the warmer months
Grades	Intermediate to advanced
Bikes	Mountain bike and e-MTB hire in Arrowtown and Queenstown
Tours	Mountain bike tours

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What mountain biking is there near Arrowtown?

Area	Type	What to expect
The hills above Arrowtown	Singletrack loops	Climbs and descents through tussock and old gold workings
Towards Macetown	Backcountry	A long ride with river crossings and big scenery
Coronet Peak	Lift-served bike park	Downhill and flow trails on the ski area’s slopes in the warmer months
Queenstown	Gondola-served bike park	Steep, technical downhill trails above the town
The Queenstown Trail	Easy gravel	A relaxed day between harder rides

Can you ride straight from the RV park into the hills?

Yes. Local trails start on the edge of Arrowtown, so you can ride from the holiday park. Some loops climb steeply into the hills above the village, with sweeping views over the Wakatipu Basin. Ask at the local bike shops for current trail conditions and the best loops for your level.

What about Macetown by bike?

The route to Macetown follows the Arrow River upstream, with many river crossings, and is a long, demanding day for experienced riders. River levels can rise quickly after rain, making crossings dangerous. Check conditions before you go, or take a guided mountain bike tour. See Macetown.

Can you drive the campervan to the bike parks?

Coronet Peak’s access road is sealed but steep and winding, and some rental agreements exclude ski field roads, so check your terms. Many riders use shuttles from Queenstown or Arrowtown instead. Queenstown’s gondola-served bike park is in the town centre, where parking for large vehicles is limited, so taking a bus or shuttle from Arrowtown is easier.

Should you hire a bike or bring your own?

Hiring is usually easiest, with full-suspension bikes and e-MTBs available locally. If you bring your own, check whether your campervan can carry a rack, and secure bikes inside the vehicle overnight. See bike hire and shuttles.

How do you ride safely in the hills?

• Wear a helmet and protective gear.
• Carry water, food, a jacket and a repair kit.
• Tell someone your route, especially on backcountry rides.
• Check the weather, which changes quickly in the mountains.
• Ride within your ability, and consider a guide for unfamiliar terrain.

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Frequently Asked Questions