Queenstown, renowned as New Zealand’s adventure capital, is a playground for cyclists and thrill-seekers alike. With its dramatic landscapes—fiord-like lakes, rugged mountains, and lush vineyards—it’s a natural fit for bike tours. Whether you’re craving the rush of off-road quad biking or prefer leisurely rides through historic towns and wine regions, Queenstown has something for every pedal-powered adventurer. Among our favorites are the Queenstown ATV Quad Bike Adventure Tour, which offers an adrenaline-fueled ride through rugged terrain, and the Bike & Wine Tour from Arrowtown to the Valley of the Vines, perfect for combining scenic cycling with tastings at boutique wineries.
What makes Queenstown stand out for bike tours is the variety of landscapes—mountain trails, lakeside paths, and historic rail trails—all within easy reach. You’ll find options suitable for different fitness levels and interests, from guided mountain biking to self-guided e-bike adventures that let you explore at your own pace. The region’s well-maintained trails and stunning scenery ensure that every ride is memorable.
1. Queenstown ATV Quad Bike Adventure Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Queenstown ATV Quad Bike Adventure Tour is a standout for its thrilling off-road experience just minutes from downtown Queenstown. For around $176, you get about an hour of riding through a private 650-acre adventure park. Your guide tailors the trails to your skill level—so whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced rider, you’ll find the terrain challenging yet manageable. The tour includes all gear—helmets, gloves, goggles, and wet-weather clothing—making it an easy choice for adventure lovers.
Guests love the small-group setting, which ensures personalized attention, and rave about guides like Stefan and Ollie, who make safety and fun top priorities. Even in rain, the views of the Shotover River and Southern Alps remain spectacular, and many reviewers mention how the activity pushes their limits while remaining safe. This tour is perfect for those wanting a high-octane, scenic escape that’s adaptable and fun.
Bottom line: For an adrenaline rush in a stunning environment, this quad bike adventure offers excellent value and a memorable ride for all skill levels.
2. Otago Central Rail Trail One Day Wonder Cycle Tour
At number 2, the Otago Central Rail Trail One Day Wonder Cycle Tour offers a semi-guided, six-hour trip through Central Otago’s rugged landscape. Perfect for active travelers with some cycling experience, this tour includes bike fittings, a map, and a transfer to Auripo, from where you’ll ride back towards Clyde. The route takes you through historic towns, sweeping mountain views, and along the old rail bed that once served miners and farmers.
Electric bikes are available, which many find helpful on the hilly sections. Reviewers praise the well-prepared bikes and the informative transfer commentary, making it easier to connect with the area’s history and scenery. The trip is flexible—participants can choose to continue to Clyde or be collected en route, offering great customization for your day.
Bottom line: This tour balances adventure with comfort, making it ideal for cyclists who want a guided, scenic ride with some independence.
3. Queenstown: Quad Biking Experience
Number 3, the Queenstown Quad Biking Experience is a 3.5-hour off-road adventure through Queenstown’s most spectacular mountain ranges. Using automatic ATV quad bikes, you’ll follow your guide over exclusive tracks on Queenstown Hill—an area with some of the best vistas in the region. The trip includes a detailed safety briefing and instructions, making it accessible even if you’re new to quad biking.
Guests rave about the breathtaking views and the sense of freedom on rugged trails. The tour’s focus on safety and guided riding helps newcomers feel confident, while experienced riders enjoy the challenge of varied terrain. The tour is perfect for those wanting to combine adventure and scenic beauty with a manageable time commitment.
Bottom line: If you’re craving a true off-road experience with panoramic mountain views, this tour offers a well-priced, guided ride suitable for most skill levels.
4. CHP Bike Rentals Cromwell
Number 4 is the CHP Bike Rentals Cromwell, offering ultimate freedom to explore Central Otago’s countryside at your own pace. For $109, you can rent regular or e-bikes for 4-5 hours and ride along the scenic Lake Dunstan Trail. The rental includes helmets, repair kits, and shuttles, making it a hassle-free way to see the area.
Reviewers appreciate the quality of the bikes and the flexibility to design their own route, whether they want to tackle the 55-kilometer Lake Dunstan Trail or explore local sights. The e-bikes make climbing easier, giving everyone a chance to enjoy the ride—perfect for families or groups with mixed fitness levels.
Bottom line: This rental option is ideal if you want to customize your adventure and soak up the scenery at your own speed.
5. Queenstown Hill Quad Bike Tour
Number 5, the Queenstown Hill Quad Bike Tour is a 3.5-hour adventure riding fully automatic 400cc quad bikes across Queenstown Hill. This tour includes full safety gear, informative commentary, and access to trails that vary in difficulty, making it suitable for different skill levels.
What sets this tour apart is the exclusive access to trails on Queenstown Hill, providing panoramic views and unique photo opportunities. Many guests mention the professional instruction and the thrill of riding on varied terrain. It’s a great choice for those wanting a half-day adrenaline fix with plenty of scenic stops.
Bottom line: For a guided, scenic, off-road ride that balances safety and excitement, this tour is a top pick.
6. Bike & Wine Tour: Arrowtown to Valley of the Vines
Coming in at number 6, the Bike & Wine Tour: Arrowtown to Valley of the Vines is perfect for relaxing active wine lovers. At around $70, you’ll shuttle to Arrowtown or Gibbston, then explore vineyards and boutique wineries along the Gibbston River Trail. The tour emphasizes self-guided freedom, with bikes, helmets, and shuttle transfers included.
Reviewers love the scenic routes, the convenient logistics, and the opportunity to stop for wine tastings and gourmet food. The tour suits those who prefer a leisurely pace and want to combine cycling with wine sampling. It’s especially well suited for those wanting a culinary adventure with scenery.
Bottom line: Ideal for a relaxing, wine-filled day with scenic cycling in a beautiful region—perfect if you want to combine taste and scenery.
7. Guided eBike Tour ‘Ride to the Sky’
Number 7, the Guided eBike Tour ‘Ride to the Sky’ takes you to Grants Peak on an electric bike. This 3.5-hour tour includes panoramic views of Queenstown’s surrounding mountains and a visit to the Remarkables and Coronet Peak. You’ll learn about high country farming, Māori legends, and local history as you ascend with ease thanks to the e-bike.
Guests highlight the breathtaking scenery and the fun of climbing with little effort. The guide’s knowledge and the equipment’s quality make this a good choice for those less confident on regular bikes but still want a mountain adventure.
Bottom line: For spectacular views and a manageable climb, this guided eBike tour offers a comfortable ascent and memorable scenery.
8. Lake Dunstan Cycleway Bike Rental With Return Luxury Shuttle
Number 8 is the Lake Dunstan Cycleway Bike Rental, offering an easy, scenic ride along the cliffs of Lake Dunstan. For just over $91, you get an e-bike, safety gear, and a shuttle to and from the trail. The 26-mile trail features spectacular views and is well-suited for most levels, especially with electric assist.
Many reviewers mention how comfortable the bikes are and how the e-assist makes the hills easy. The scenic views and well-maintained trail make it a stress-free experience, perfect for those wanting a leisurely ride in beautiful surroundings.
Bottom line: This rental is excellent for a straightforward, scenic outing with minimal planning needed.
9. The Ultimate Lake Dunstan Bike Hire And Boat Experience
Ranked 9, this Bike and Boat Experience combines bike rental with a scenic boat transfer on Lake Dunstan. For around $177, you get a full day of exploring the lakeside trail, plus a boat ride that offers an incredible perspective of the landscape.
The review quotes emphasize how well-organized and memorable this activity is, especially the scenic boat transfer. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to combine two modes of transport—bike and boat—for a comprehensive experience.
Bottom line: Excellent value for those wanting a full-day, all-in-one adventure with unique views from both land and water.
10. Arrowtown to Queenstown Bike Tour with Shuttle
Number 10 offers a self-guided e-bike from Arrowtown to Queenstown. For about $53, you’ll enjoy a scenic ride along the Queenstown Trail, crossing iconic landmarks like the Kawarau Suspension Bridge. The shuttle service makes returning hassle-free, and the ride takes approximately 3 to 5 hours, depending on your pace.
Reviewers praise the ease of the rental process, the beautiful scenery, and the flexibility to explore at your leisure. This tour suits those who want to customize their itinerary and enjoy a peaceful, scenic route.
Bottom line: Perfect for independent explorers seeking a flexible, scenic ride with minimal fuss.
11. Arrowtown to Gibbston: Full-Day Bike & Wine Tour
Ranking 11, this full-day tour combines cycling through Gibbston Valley wineries with optional tastings and visits to local breweries. Starting at around $67, the trip includes shuttles, bikes, and a curated itinerary along the Gibbston River Trail. You can stop at several wineries and enjoy the countryside views.
Guests love the combination of wine and cycling and appreciate the well-organized logistics. It’s ideal if you want a laid-back, food-and-wine-focused day with scenic stops.
Bottom line: A relaxing way to enjoy Queenstown’s wine region without sacrificing the outdoors.
12. Arrowtown to Queenstown Full-Day Bike Adventure
Number 12 features a self-guided mountain bike or e-bike ride with shuttle included. Covering about 22 miles, the route passes through Arrowtown and along Lake Wakatipu, with spectacular views of The Remarkables. The flexible schedule and quality bikes make this an excellent choice for experienced cyclists.
Reviewers mention the well-maintained trails and the opportunity to explore at their own pace, with options to stop at cafes or take photos along the way. It’s best suited for active, confident riders.
Bottom line: For a challenging, scenic ride with independence, this tour hits the mark for seasoned cyclists.
13. Scenic Guided eBike Tour Ride to the Lake
Ranked 13, this Scenic Guided eBike Tour offers a 3.5-hour lakeshore ride with an expert guide. The tour includes easy pedaling on e-bikes that make covering the route relaxed and enjoyable. Attractions include native bush, mountain views, and the lake itself.
Reviewers describe the trip as “phenomenal,” emphasizing the spectacular scenery and personalized attention. It’s perfect for beginners or those wanting a gentle, scenic tour.
Bottom line: A great choice for a relaxed, scenic ride with professional guidance and spectacular views.
14. Arrowtown to Gibbston – Iconic Arrow River Bridges Bike Ride
Number 14 is an easy, scenic route that takes you through Arrowtown, past the Gibbston Valley Winery, and along the Arrow River Bridges Trail. For about $58, it includes bike rental, shuttles, and trail tips.
Guests praise the beautiful scenery and historic landmarks like the Kawarau Bungy Bridge. It’s suited for families or casual cyclists who want a scenic, low-stress ride.
Bottom line: This is a straightforward, scenic ride with options for wine tasting—great for a relaxed day out.
15. Queenstown: Dirt Bike Tours
Number 15, the Queenstown Dirt Bike Tours is a 1.5-hour adventure on a 600-acre private property. Designed for those with clutch control and off-road confidence, it challenges you on increasingly difficult terrain. Expect adrenaline, skill-building, and lots of fun—perfect for experienced riders looking to push their limits.
Guests mention how exhilarating and challenging this ride is, with a focus on learning trail riding techniques. It’s best suited for riders who are competent on two wheels and want a challenging, adrenaline-fueled experience.
Bottom line: For seasoned dirt bike enthusiasts, this tour offers a challenging, fun, and scenic ride that will test your skills.
How to Choose Your Perfect Queenstown Bike Tour
When selecting the right bike adventure, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For instance, if you want an adrenaline rush, the Queenstown ATV Quad Bike Adventure Tour or Queenstown Dirt Bike Tours are excellent. If you prefer a leisurely ride combined with wine tasting, the Bike & Wine Tour from Arrowtown or Arrowtown to Gibbston full-day are perfect.
For those seeking guided scenic rides, options like the Ride to the Sky or Scenic Guided eBike Ride provide stunning views and expert insights. Families or casual riders should look into rental options like the CHP Bike Rentals Cromwell.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months, to secure your spot on these popular tours.
In summary, Queenstown offers a diverse range of bike experiences—from high-speed quad biking to serene lakeside rides and wine country explorations. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a nature lover, or a foodie, you’ll find a tour that matches your style. For the best experience, choose a tour that aligns with your fitness level and interests, and don’t forget to book in advance to avoid missing out on your perfect ride in this stunning corner of New Zealand.