Queenstown’s main mountain-bike season runs from September to May, with peak conditions generally occurring from October to April.

Treadmark coaches throughout the year, although October to April is the busiest period. December, January and February are particularly busy. During this time, we run after-school term programmes, women’s progression sessions, school-holiday lessons and multi-day private lessons for individuals and groups.

Yes, uplift-based bike parks require a valid lift or access pass:

• Queenstown Bike Park via Skyline: A 25-run, 50-run, 100-run or season pass is required.
• Cardrona: A lift pass is required during the summer season. Treadmark offers complimentary transport to Cardrona.
• Coronet Peak: A lift pass is required. Sunset passes are generally inexpensive and popular.
• 7 Mile Reserve: Pedal access is free. Park at the Wilsons Bay car park.

Queenstown’s terrain is generally more challenging than many other riding destinations, and most local trails are best suited to intermediate and advanced riders.

Beginner-friendly options are available, including trails around Seven Mile. However, Queenstown has a greater selection of Grade 4 and Grade 5 trails than green trails, partly because of the area’s naturally steep terrain.

We strongly recommend developing core stability skills such as body position, braking and cornering before progressing onto more demanding terrain.

When you are unsure which trails suit your ability, book a skills lesson or guided ride so the correct terrain can be selected safely.

High-quality bike rentals are available from Outside Sports on Shotover Street in central Queenstown.

Treadmark’s E-bike Adventures and Master the Bike Park products include premium bike rentals. Bikes are prepared and set up according to each rider’s height and weight.

• A correctly fitting helmet. A full-face helmet is recommended for bike-park laps.
• Knee pads.
• Gloves.
• At least 1–1.5 litres of water.
• Snacks or enough food for the planned riding time.
• Weather-appropriate clothing.

Treadmark instructors and guides normally carry comprehensive safety equipment.

A moderate level of fitness is generally sufficient. Mountain biking also requires balance and basic stability on the bike.

Riding a mountain bike is different from riding a standard bicycle. Braking forces, changing terrain and other forces can challenge your stability and body position.

A simple stability check is to stand on level pedals and ride for approximately 100 metres. Notice whether your legs remain stable or begin to shake. You can also observe whether your feet remain level when braking.

This gives you a useful indication of your current stability. From there, we can begin teaching the fundamental skills required for safe and confident mountain biking.

Travel insurance is highly recommended. Check that your policy specifically covers mountain biking and bike-park riding, as some standard policies exclude these activities.

Self-driving is generally the most flexible way to reach Queenstown’s riding locations.

Treadmark also offers complimentary transport for selected Queenstown services. Transport availability depends on the product, location and booking arrangements.