The Skyline Gondola provides access to a number of walking tracks and hikes offering panoramic views of Queenstown, lake and mountains. From easy walks to longer hiking trails requiring a good level of fitness.
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:: Walking Tracks

Queenstown Walking Tracks & Hikes

From the Skyline complex, there are several walking or hiking tracks to enjoy. Get a copy of the Skyline Trail map from the Information Desk (top of gondola) to enjoy the walks around the complex or visit the Department of Conservation (Shotover St, Queenstown) for a more detailed map of the hikes (a good level of fitness and experience is required for these options)

Situated above the Skyline complex, there are several walks to choose from.

  • Self guided interpretive walk (30 minutes+): Take the gondola up to Skyline and collect a Skyline Trail Map from the Information Desk. Start in the complex by viewing the historic picture gallery, then onto viewing deck to Skyline history, interpretive panels overlooking Queenstown, the luge and Coronet Peak, before following the luge walking track via the nature’s windows interpretive frames and onto the loop track (see below).
  • Loop Track (30 minute walk): Take the gondola up to Skyline.  Follow the signage from the base building up past the Luge to the reservoir, turn right at the signpost and meander through the trees before descending back to Skyline.  Make sure you take time to enjoy the serenity of the bush.  Easy walking.

  • Lower Ridge Track (25 minute walk - one way): Take the gondola up to Skyline.  Follow the walking track up to the Luge and take the signposted track to Parapenters.  Pass the reservoir and keep walking uphill till signposted to Lower Ridge Track.  Follow the track up through the pines, appreciate the absolute silence before emerging onto the ridge above Bob's Peak.  Panoramic views of lake, mountain and beyond.  Steady uphill walking. Sturdy shoes required.

  • One Mile to the Lakefront (1.5 hour walk): Take the gondola up to Skyline.  Start walking down the Skyline access track and turn right off the track where signposted to One Mile.  Follow the old water pipe through native bush, past the 1924 hydro dam to the Fernhill roundabout on the lake edge.  Easy walking.

  • Ben Lomond Summit (5 hours return - hike): One of the highest peaks in the basin with some stunning views.  This can be a full day walk so take extra clothing, drink and food.  Take the Gondola to Skyline, follow the signs to the saddle and the steep ascent on your left to the summit (1747m). A good level of fitness is required.

  • Moonlight Track to Arthur's Point via the Saddle (6 hour hike): This trail is one of the most popular in the region.  This can be a full day walk so take extra clothing, drink and food.  Take the gondola to Skyline, follow the signs to the saddle then the descent on your right down to the Moonlight Track.  Turn right and follow the historic Moonlight Track back to Arthur's Point.  A good level of fitness is required.
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Skyline Queenstown
Brecon St, PO Box 17
Queenstown
New Zealand
Phone: 64 3 441 0101
Fax: 64 3 442 6391

Updated Saturday, 4 February 2012