Queenstown, often called the adventure capital of New Zealand, offers more than just adrenaline-pumping activities. Its spectacular landscapes make it a haven for hikers, trekkers, and outdoor lovers. Whether you prefer riding horses through historic gold rush trails, hiking past snow-capped peaks, or exploring glaciers on a helicopter-assisted trek, Queenstown has something for every active traveler. Many tours stand out for their unique access to untouched scenery — like the Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike or the Routeburn Track Guided Hike. These adventures combine breathtaking views with expert guides, making them memorable highlights of any trip.
One of the reasons Queenstown shines as a hiking destination is its accessibility and the variety of options available. From half-day horseback rides to full-day glacier explorations, you can tailor your experience to your fitness level and time constraints. For those who enjoy history, the Cardrona High Country Pub Trail Horse Riding Trek offers an engaging mix of scenic riding and historical storytelling. Meanwhile, the Queenstown: Walter Peak Horse Trek & Lake Cruise combines a relaxing boat trip with a gentle horse ride, perfect for families or first-timers.
1. Cardrona High Country Pub Trail Horse Riding Trek (Intermediate+)
At number 1, this horse riding trek takes you into the rugged New Zealand countryside with a mix of history, scenic views, and a fun pub stop. Over approximately three and a half hours, your small group will follow winding mountain trails that showcase the area’s gold rush heritage and pass through a working cattle farm. The guide shares stories about the 19th-century gold rush, making this more than just a ride — it’s a historical journey on horseback. Pass rivers, enjoy panoramic views, and finish at the historic Cardrona Hotel, where free drinks await you.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of accessibility and depth. It’s perfect for all ages and skill levels, thanks to its friendly guides and well-cared-for horses. The small group size means personalized attention, and the inclusion of drinks adds a relaxed, social atmosphere. Reviewers love the blend of scenery and storytelling, with many citing it as an unforgettable experience. “Perfect experience, very well kept horses, and guiding that made everyone feel safe,” one said.
Bottom Line: If you want a scenic, social ride that combines history and nature, this trek offers excellent value and a memorable day.
2. Gold Discovery Trail Horse Trek Cardrona – Most popular!
For around $286, the Gold Discovery Trail Horse Trek provides an accessible way to explore the stunning Cardrona Valley. About two hours long, this horseback ride follows the path of the 19th-century gold rush, with guides sharing tales of Otago’s rich mining history. Riders of all levels can participate, and no experience is necessary, which makes it a great choice for beginners or families.
What sets this tour apart is its versatility and storytelling. The guide Phoebe, for example, keeps things lively with funny anecdotes and local lore. Guests enjoy trotting or galloping depending on comfort, with the scenic backdrop of snow-capped mountains and lush valleys. Many reviews highlight the friendly horses and the supply of unique insights into regional history. One reviewer wrote, “The scenery was epic, and the guide kept us entertained with stories about the gold rush and local life.”
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value for its duration, especially if you want to combine riding with engaging storytelling and natural beauty.
3. Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike Tour from Queenstown
Number 3 is a true standout for its exclusivity and scenery — a heli-hike on the Tasman Glacier. After a stunning helicopter flight, you’ll land high on the ice for a two-hour guided trek on snow and ice, equipped with crampons and guided by expert guides. You’ll explore ice caves, crevasses, and remarkable landscapes inaccessible by other means, making it a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
The tour’s highlight is the combination of aerial views and close-up glacier exploration. The guides are experienced, providing equipment and safety instructions, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all levels. Many reviewers describe it as “unreal” and highlight the guide’s friendliness and professionalism. One said, “The views from the helicopter, combined with walking on the glacier, made for an unforgettable day.”
This tour is perfect for active travelers seeking a mix of adventure and scenery, but it’s not for those afraid of heights or with mobility issues. The price reflects the rarity of access and the quality of the experience.
Bottom Line: For those seeking an unforgettable glacier adventure, this tour offers exceptional scenery combined with the thrill of hiking on ice.
4. Queenstown: Walter Peak Horse Trek & Queenstown Lake Cruise
Number 4 combines a scenic cruise with a relaxing horse trek on Walter Peak High Country Farm. Starting with a 45-minute boat ride on Lake Wakatipu aboard the vintage TSS Earnslaw, you’ll arrive at a working farm where a gentle horse ride awaits. Suitable for all levels, including children and beginners, this tour offers a peaceful way to enjoy Queenstown’s stunning scenery.
The guide shares insights into farm life and the history of Walter Peak, adding educational value. The included morning or afternoon tea, served at the farm, makes this a perfect half-day outing. Reviewers praise the combination of the boat cruise with the farm experience, calling it “a wonderful way to relax and enjoy the scenery.”
This tour is ideal for those who want a mix of outdoor activity and leisure, especially if they prefer a slower pace. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the scenic views make it a memorable experience.
Bottom Line: A great choice for families and first-timers who want a scenic, gentle introduction to Queenstown’s landscapes.
5. Golden Hills Horse Trek in Central Otago
At number 5, this horse trek offers two hours of relaxed riding through Central Otago’s wide-open spaces. The tour features sweeping views of Lake Dunstan and the Mt. Pisa Range, with options for different skill levels. Young children can be led, making it suitable for families, while experienced riders can trot or gallop as desired.
Jasmine, the guide, is praised for her friendliness and knowledge, making riders feel safe and comfortable. Guests love the chance to meet the horses, each with their own character, and to take in the peaceful scenery. Some reviews highlight the attention to safety and the flexibility of longer or faster treks for more experienced riders.
The tour’s affordability and personalized approach make it a solid option for those wanting a scenic ride without a long commitment. It’s best suited for casual riders or those new to horseback riding.
Bottom Line: If scenic views and a relaxed pace appeal to you, this tour combines good value with a friendly atmosphere.
6. From Queenstown: Josef Glacier Scenic Flight and Guided Hike
Number 6 offers a full-day guided tour combining scenic flights and glacier exploration. You’ll fly from Queenstown to Franz Josef, then switch to a helicopter to land on the glacier for a guided hike. Walking on the ice, with crampons, you’ll explore caves and crevasses, witnessing landscapes only accessible by helicopter.
The highlight is the combination of aerial views and physical exploration of the glacier. The guides are experienced, sharing insights into the glacier’s natural features and history. The scenic flight itself offers spectacular vistas of mountains and ice. Guests rave about the “unreal” experience, calling it a top highlight of their trip.
This tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable in cold environments and physical activity. Its full-day duration makes it suitable for those eager to see the glaciers up close and learn about their fragile beauty.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive glacier adventure, this tour offers exceptional scenery and hands-on exploration.
7. Half Day Walter Peak Horse Trek and Cruise from Queenstown
Number 7 is a shorter version of the full-day Walter Peak experience. Combining a cruise on Lake Wakatipu with a horse trek, it’s perfect for travelers with limited time. The 3.5-hour tour includes a vintage boat ride, a guided horse ride, and afternoon or morning tea at the farm.
The tour is praised for its scenic views and relaxed pace. The horses are well cared for, and the guide’s local knowledge adds depth to the experience. Many reviewers mention how suitable it is for beginners and families. One reviewer notes, “The views were stunning, and the ride was very gentle.”
Bottom Line: If you want a taste of Queenstown’s scenery with a manageable time commitment, this tour offers good value.
8. Routeburn Track Guided Hike (Full Day)
Number 8 leads you into one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. This full-day guided hike takes you through Mt. Aspiring National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The moderate 10-hour trek explores lush rainforests, mountain views, and alpine scenery, with plenty of stops for snacks and a picnic lunch.
Your guide, who is knowledgeable about the flora, provides insights into the area’s natural and cultural significance. The small group (limited to 12) enhances the experience, making it more personal. Reviewers love the stunning vistas and the expert guidance. One described it as “breathtaking and well-organized,” emphasizing the well-chosen route and the comfort of round-trip transportation.
This hike is ideal for active travelers comfortable with a full day of walking and moderate elevation changes. It’s worth the effort for those wanting to see the very best of the Southern Alps.
Bottom Line: A top choice for hikers seeking a full immersion into New Zealand’s most beautiful scenery.
9. Mt Cook Small Group Tour & Heli Hike Combo from Queenstown
Number 9 is a full-day adventure that mixes scenic driving and helicopter rides with a guided glacier hike. Visiting Aoraki Mt. Cook and the Tasman Glacier, this tour offers spectacular mountain vistas and glacier exploration. The helicopter flights provide unparalleled access to rugged terrain, with expert guides leading your glacier trek.
Guests describe it as “a great way to see a lot in one day” and praise the experience of combining driving, flying, and hiking. The inclusion of snacks and bottled water adds comfort, and the small group size helps ensure personalized service. The tour’s highlights include passes through Kawarau Gorge and Lindis Pass, with stunning vistas along the way.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who want a comprehensive experience in a single day and are comfortable with a full schedule. Its high price reflects the extensive scope and access.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those eager to combine multiple scenic modes of transport with glacier hiking in one epic day.
10. Full-Day Small-Group Routeburn Valley Hike
Number 10 offers a 7 to 8-hour guided hike, focusing on a scenic section of the famous Routeburn Track. Starting from Lake Wakatipu, you’ll trek through lush rainforests and enjoy views of historic valleys like Paradise and Dart River. The small group size ensures you get personalized attention, and round-trip transportation makes the logistics simple.
The guide shares regional insights, and the hike provides a moderate challenge with rewarding scenery. Reviewers note the “beautiful views” and the knowledgeable guide. It’s suited for active travelers comfortable with several hours of moderate walking and looking to experience New Zealand’s iconic landscapes firsthand.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a manageable, guided day hike with spectacular scenery.
How to Choose Your Queenstown Hiking and Trekking Adventure
When deciding among these options, consider your fitness level, time constraints, and what kind of scenery or experience appeals most. For a full immersion into glaciers, the Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike offers unmatched scenery. If you prefer combining history and scenery, try the Cardrona High Country Pub Trail. Families or casual hikers might enjoy the Walter Peak Lake Cruise and Horse Trek.
Booking early is recommended, especially for full-day or helicopter tours, as they tend to fill up quickly. Consider the time of year; summer (December to February) provides longer daylight hours and warmer weather, ideal for trekking.
Queenstown offers a broad spectrum of hiking and trekking tours, whether you’re after an adrenaline-fueled glacier adventure, a gentle horse ride with scenic views, or a full-day trek in pristine national parks. For a memorable trip, you might combine a scenic helicopter flight with a glacier hike or enjoy a relaxed ride through historic gold rush trails. No matter your choice, Queenstown’s landscapes promise unforgettable moments — so plan ahead and book early to secure your best adventure.