Singletrack in Schist Country
Arrowtown’s mountain biking extends beyond the sealed trail network into the hills — purpose-built singletrack trails on the tussock-covered schist hillsides, the Crown Range foothills, and the former gold mining terrain around the Arrow River. The mountain biking is characterised by the Central Otago landscape: dry, open tussock country with schist rock outcrops, panoramic views of the Remarkables and Crown Range, and trails that flow through terrain shaped by 150 years of mining activity (mullock heaps, water races, and tailings that add texture and features to the riding).
Key Mountain Bike Trails
Coronet Peak trails — the ski field’s access roads and purpose-built mountain bike trails are rideable in summer (December–April), with a range of difficulties from gentle fire roads to steep, technical singletrack. Some operators offer uplift shuttles to the top, with riders descending on the trails.
The Tobins Track network — singletrack trails in the hills between Arrowtown and Queenstown, offering intermediate-level riding with views across the Wakatipu Basin.
Big Hill and Sawpit Gully — backcountry trails in the Crown Range foothills, accessing the old mining areas with more remote, challenging riding. A guide is recommended for navigation and safety.
The Arrow River singletrack — trails along the river gorge that parallel the sealed path but on rougher, more technical terrain. Suitable for intermediate mountain bikers.
Practical Tips
Arrowtown’s mountain bike terrain is dry and rocky. Central Otago’s low rainfall (approximately 350 mm annually) creates trails that are rideable year-round, but the schist rock and the compacted soil can be loose and slippery. Tyre choice matters — semi-slick or dry-condition tyres grip better than aggressive mud tyres.
Summer and autumn are the best seasons. The dry conditions, the warm temperatures, and the extended daylight make December–May the prime mountain biking window. Winter riding is possible but cold (frost, ice on shaded trails) and the daylight is limited.
Rent a quality mountain bike locally. Arrowtown and Queenstown have multiple bike hire shops with full-suspension mountain bikes, helmets, and trail advice. A guide who knows the trails manages navigation, identifies the best riding for your ability, and ensures you find the singletrack (which is not always well-signposted).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arrowtown good for mountain biking?
Yes. The combination of purpose-built singletrack, the dry Central Otago climate (rideable year-round), the schist and tussock terrain, and the proximity to Queenstown’s mountain bike infrastructure makes the Arrowtown area one of the best mountain biking destinations in the South Island.
What difficulty level are the mountain bike trails?
The trails range from easy (fire roads, gentle singletrack) to advanced (steep, technical, exposed terrain on the hillsides). Most visitor-accessible trails are intermediate. A guide matches the riding to your ability.
Can I rent a mountain bike in Arrowtown?
Yes. Several operators in Arrowtown and nearby Queenstown rent full-suspension mountain bikes with helmets and trail maps. Half-day and full-day rentals are available.