Need to know…
When planning a cycling trip, there are several factors to consider to ensure that your experience is safe, enjoyable, and memorable. Firstly, make sure to plan your route in advance, taking into account the terrain, elevation, and distance. It is also important to ensure that you have the necessary equipment and supplies, such as a well-maintained bike, comfortable clothing, and plenty of water and snacks. Additionally, familiarise yourself with the local weather patterns, and always carry appropriate protection against rain or sun. Before setting out, make sure to inform someone of your route and expected arrival time, and always carry a means of communication, such as a mobile phone or personal locator beacon. By following these tips, you can ensure that your cycling experience on the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail is the best it can be.
Get in touch with any questionsFitness and skills
The Around the Mountains Cycle Trail is primarily graded 2-3 easy-intermediate, with much of the trail following custom-made cycle trails\ with gentle gradients. There are, however, a number of sections on public roads where riders should be prepared to encounter traffic. Please stay on the left.
The section between Walter Peak Station and Mavora Lakes follows a reasonably smooth gravel road, but its remoteness bumps the grade up to Grade 3.
There are two rivers between Mt Nicholas Station and Mavora Lakes; these may be impassable after heavy rain so please check the weather forecast. Your best bet for trail updates is to ask the locals; and bike tour operators are likely to have the most up-to-date information.
To reach Mavora Lakes, riders will turn off Mt Nicholas Road and travel a further 2km.
The gravel road from Mavora Lakes to Centre Hill can be busy and dusty, especially in summer. It’s possible to arrange shuttle transport along this section should riders wish to avoid it. Those attempting the full trail – including the Mavora Lakes section – should be reasonably fit, experienced and self-sufficient.
Riding season
It’s possible to ride the trail all year round but the most popular time is from October to May. It can get very hot in peak summer, making a helmet visor and sunscreen essential. And while snow may make some sections impassable, the trail offers up some spectacular winter riding complete with beautifully snow-dusted mountain ranges.
These mountainous surroundings are subject to a wide variety and often quickly changing weather conditions, so be sure to check the forecast in advance and pack clothing for all possibilities.
Clothing
Pack for four seasons in a day – this is Southland and the weather can be unpredictable and changeable.
Accommodation
There are various accommodation options situated along the trail however is it highly recommended that you book in advance.
Food and water
Supplies can be found in cafes and grocery stores in Queenstown, Mossburn, Lumsden, Garston and Athol. There are no services whatsoever between Walter Peak Station and Mossburn so be sure to carry plenty of food and drink for this section.
Collected rainwater is available at shelters along the way and at the Mavora Lakes DOC campsite, although boiling or treating it is recommended. Be sure to carry plenty of water on hot summer days.
Toilets
There are facilities between Walter Peak and Mavora Lakes and in each of the towns along the trail.
Mobile phones
Cellphone coverage can be limited on the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail, particularly in the Mavora Lakes area. There is no coverage for 36km from Mt Nicholas Station to Mavora.
Coverage is intermittent through to Mossburn. We recommend taking a personal locator beacon. These can be hired from DOC visitor centre, Queenstown, 50 Stanley St and ASI, 115 Yarrow St, Invercargill.
Sandflies
These tiny creatures can be a big annoyance! Make sure you pack plenty of insect repellant – you will need it at Mavora to combat the resident sandfly population.
First aid
Always carry a basic first aid kit with you, especially when you’re heading into remote wilderness areas.
EFTPOS
While shops have EFTPOS available, not all accommodation providers are equipped with it recommend to check first.
Mavora Lakes camping
There’s a DOC campsite at Mavora Lakes, known as ‘Mavora Lakes South’. The campsite is basic providing water (which must be boiled or treated) and toilets only. This campsite is self-registration; rangers are present during the summer months. Payments for campsites is required in cash. All rubbish must be taken out with you. More information is available on the DOC website Stay at a campsite: Places to stay (doc.govt.nz)
The TSS Earnslaw
The TSS Earnslaw is serviced annually and therefore won’t be operating from May to July. However, alternative vessels will complete her duties to Walter Peak during this time. Please note: sailing times and frequency for the TSS Earnslaw may change so contact Real NZ for the latest schedule www.realnz.com
Take your map on the go
Download MapDiscover your next adventure…
Embark on an unforgettable adventure in the picturesque wilderness of southern New Zealand with the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail! This unique trail takes you from the bustling energy of Queenstown to serene agricultural landscapes of Southland, showcasing a range of contrasts.
Cyclists of all levels will be thrilled with the diverse experience offered on this 186km trail, which can be tackled in either direction, starting from Kingston or Walter Peak. Take your time and enjoy the journey at a leisurely pace, it’s an easy trail to conquer!
