Fancy a walk that won’t totally exhaust you but still delivers incredible views? Tobin’s Track in Arrowtown is your perfect match. I’ve updated this guide with all the latest info, from sneaky route options to what you actually need to bring (spoiler: it’s not as much as you think).
| Location: | Arrowtown, Otago |
| Difficulty Level: | Easy to moderate |
| Duration: | 1-2 hours return (depending on how much you stop to take photos) |
| Walking Distance: | 6 km return (3 km each way) |
| Walk Type: | Out-and-back, shared walking/cycling trail |
| Elevation Gain: | 277m |
| Suitable for: | Families, casual walkers, cyclists, dog walkers |
| Terrain and Track Surface: | Tobin's Track starts off flat and easy |
| Toilets: | Nearest ones are back in Arrowtown. |
| Dogs: | Welcome but must be kept on a leash |
The views from Tobin’s Track are honestly pretty spectacular. You’ll get sweeping views over Arrowtown that make the town look like a cute little model village, plus the entire Wakatipu Basin spread out below you. On a clear day, you can spot Lake Wakatipu glinting in the distance, and the Crown Ranges and Remarkables create this dramatic mountain backdrop that’ll have you reaching for your phone every five minutes.
If you time it right during autumn, the whole valley turns into this incredible golden carpet. Fair warning though, everyone else knows this too, so expect company during peak autumn season.
Back in the 1870s, a guy named Thomas Tobin decided Arrowtown needed better access to Wanaka, so he basically carved this track out of the hillside. Originally it was a bridle path for horses, miners, and anyone brave enough to make the journey between settlements. You can actually still spot Thomas Tobin’s old cottage on your way up if you keep your eyes peeled.
Walking this track today, you’re literally following the same route that gold miners used over 150 years ago. Pretty cool when you think about it—though they probably weren’t stopping every few meters for Instagram shots.
From Queenstown: Easy 20-minute drive (20 km)
From Wanaka: About 50 minutes (54 km)
No car? Hop on a bus from Queenstown to Arrowtown, then it’s just a short stroll to the start.
Where to start: Head to the bottom of Ford Street (corner of Centennial Avenue and Bedford Street). You can also get there from near the Arrowtown bus terminal if that’s easier.
There’s free parking right at the reserve near the Arrow River bridge, can’t beat that. If you arrive and it’s packed (happens a lot during autumn), don’t stress. There’s more parking in central Arrowtown, and it’s only a few minutes’ walk to the trailhead anyway.
You’ll start by crossing the Arrow River bridge (nice little warm-up), then the track follows the riverbank before it starts climbing. Don’t panic—it’s not one of those brutal straight-up slogs. The gradient is pretty reasonable, though you’ll definitely know you’re going uphill.
Things to watch for:
The Standard Route: Go up, enjoy the views, come back down the same way. Total of 6 km and perfectly respectable.
The Loop Option: Here’s where locals get creative. Instead of returning the same way, take “Tobin’s Drop”, a much steeper descent that’ll get your heart racing. It connects back to the river track for a proper loop. Just heads up: it’s steep and can be slippery, so don’t attempt this in your sneakers.
For the Overachievers: Connect to New Chum Track halfway up for a longer adventure. Fair warning, this turns your casual walk into a proper hike.
The main track is mostly gravel with some rocky bits thrown in. It’s generally well-maintained, but this isn’t a nice smooth footpath. You’ll want decent shoes, those canvas sneakers might leave you regretting your choices.
Also, heads up: you’re sharing this track with cyclists and the occasional 4WD vehicle. Most cyclists are pretty good about calling out when they’re coming through, but stay alert.
Autumn is a top pick for Tobin’s Track with all those vibrant colours, but it’s a great walk year-round. It can get a bit busy on weekends and public holidays, especially during the Arrowtown Autumn Festival. Try early mornings or late afternoons for a quieter stroll.
The summit views are the money shot, obviously. If you’re into photography, the golden hour lighting is incredible, especially during autumn. Wide-angle shots work best for capturing the whole valley.
Here’s a local secret: the views looking back down at Arrowtown as you climb are often better than the summit photos everyone takes. Don’t just focus on the destination.
Once you’ve conquered Tobin’s Track, here are some other local favorites:
How long does it really take? Most people take about 1.5 hours total. If you’re fit and not stopping for photos, you could do it in an hour. If you’re taking your time and soaking it all in, budget 2 hours.
Is it actually suitable for beginners? Yes, but “easy” is relative. You’ll get your heart rate up, and your legs will know they’ve done something.
What about the weather? Check the forecast, but don’t let a bit of cloud put you off. Some of the most dramatic photos happen when the weather’s a bit moody.
Busy times to avoid: Weekend mornings during autumn, any time during the Autumn Festival, and basically any perfect weather day. If you want it quieter, go early morning or late afternoon.
Tobin’s Track isn’t going to change your life, but it’s a good way to spend an hour or two. The combination of manageable exercise, genuine history, and those views makes it one of the better short walks around Queenstown. Plus, you can reward yourself with coffee and cake in Arrowtown afterwards, which is really what it’s all about.
Whether you’re traveling with kids, trying to impress visitors, or just want to get your steps in somewhere beautiful, Tobin’s Track delivers. Just remember to look up from your phone occasionally and actually enjoy where you are.
Head over to the Arrowtown Visitor Centre for any additional info or trail maps. Check out their website at arrowtown.com for up-to-date info.
No permits or entrance fees required! You’re free to enjoy the track without having to open your wallet.
Yep! Tobin’s Track is shared with cyclists. Just stay alert and give them space as they zoom by on the downhill.
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