Kawarau Gorge Trail – Bannockburn to Gibbston E-Bike Adventure

Ride Specs

• Distance: Approximately 35km.
• Trail grade: Grade 3 – Intermediate.
• Terrain: Gravel trails, swing bridges and cliffside sections, with climbs, descents and some narrow, exposed areas.
• Time to allow: Approximately 4–6 hours for the ride.
• Ride style: Self-guided adventure on premium pedal-assist e-bikes.
• Start: Beside Carrick Winery, Bannockburn, near Cromwell.
• Finish: Gibbston, with an afternoon shuttle return.
• Suitable for: Confident riders with previous cycling experience and moderate fitness.
• Minimum age: 13 years.

Experience the spectacular new Kawarau Gorge Trail, linking Central Otago with the Southern Lakes trail network through an extraordinary landscape.

Following the Kawarau River from Bannockburn towards Gibbston, this ride combines rugged gorge scenery, swing bridges, impressive cliffside trail engineering and flowing gravel riding.

This is a more adventurous day out than our easier riverside rides, perfect for those who enjoy riding and want to explore somewhere new.

Getting Your Adventure Started

Your day begins with optional accommodation pick-up around Queenstown from approximately 9am. Alternatively, make your own way to our Arrowtown base before departure.

Our friendly Better By Bike team will fit you with the right size e-bike, show you how it works and talk you through the route before transporting you to Bannockburn, near Cromwell.

The ride begins beside Carrick Winery, with the opportunity to grab a coffee, breakfast or supplies before setting off.

Into the Kawarau Gorge

Leaving Bannockburn, you’ll follow the trail towards the dramatic Kawarau Gorge, where open Central Otago landscapes give way to rugged hillsides, rocky bluffs and turquoise river views.

The trail winds alongside the Kawarau River, revealing a different perspective around every corner. Take your time to enjoy the scenery and appreciate a part of the landscape that few have had the chance to explore.

Swing Bridges and Cliffside Trails

One of the real highlights is the combination of swing bridges and purpose-built cliffside trail sections that carry you through the gorge.

These impressive crossings bring you close to the landscape, with spectacular views of the river and surrounding rock formations.

Flowing gravel sections mix with winding climbs and descents, making the riding itself as memorable as the scenery.

A Backcountry Adventure

The middle section of the trail travels through remote terrain with limited vehicle access. On-trail support is not available within the gorge, so riders need to be prepared to look after themselves and their group.

Your e-bike provides welcome assistance on the climbs, but good bike confidence is essential. Narrower sections, exposed areas and uneven surfaces require care and control.

We provide high-quality, well-maintained e-bikes, but mechanical issues can still happen. Repair kits are supplied, and riders are expected to be able to carry out basic repairs, including patching a punctured tyre.

Please bring your own first aid kit in case of an accident in an area our team cannot access, along with plenty of water, lunch, snacks and suitable layers for changing weather.

Our team will explain the trail, equipment and remote sections before you set off, so you know what to expect.

Why We Ride Towards Gibbston

Starting in Bannockburn means you’ll spend the day riding back towards Queenstown, with the wineries of Gibbston waiting at the finish.

We believe this direction offers a fantastic combination of scenery, ride flow and a relaxed end to your adventure.

Enjoy the ride through the gorge, then celebrate with a well-earned late lunch, wine tasting or refreshing drink.

explore at your own pace

This is your adventure, with time to stop for photos, enjoy a picnic and soak up the surroundings.

Your premium e-bike comes equipped with puncture-resistant tyres, a comfortable gel seat and rear pannier bags for your jacket, water and personal items.

Our team will explain the route, help you plan your stops and confirm your afternoon collection arrangements before you set off.

finishing your adventure

Arriving in Gibbston, you can relax at one of the local wineries and enjoy the region’s food, wine and hospitality before your shuttle collection.

Afternoon shuttles return towards Queenstown from approximately 4pm, rounding off a full day of riding and exploring.

From dramatic cliffside trails and swing bridges to rugged Central Otago landscapes and a winery finish, this is an adventure you’ll remember long after the ride is over.

Better By Bike – Your Best Day Ever!