What makes it 87% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveller can complete the 2–3-hour loop easily from town, enjoy clear signage and mobile coverage, and pause for fitness or photography without needing group coordination.
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to summit at a steady pace, enjoy viewpoints, and read interpretive panels.
Run the Time Walk loop:
Complete the 4.8 km return route with a 398 m climb as a fitness challenge.
Tip: Carry a water bottle and pace yourself on steep sections.
View from the Basket of Dreams:
Reach the summit sculpture for a 360° panorama over Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables.
Tip: Arrive at sunrise for clear air and softer light.
Explore the interpretive panels:
Read the five Time Walk panels detailing Ngāi Tahu history and gold-mining heritage.
Tip: Pause 5–10 minutes at each panel to absorb the stories.
Bird-song listening:
Stop under native beech and pine to spot tūī and kererū in their natural habitat.
Tip: Bring binoculars and stay quiet to avoid startling the birds.

Aviah Shochetman
Just above the city center, about 2.5 km away, but with an elevation gain of about 400 m. A trail mostly in the forest until you reach the summit with a breathtaking view. I recommend continuing on the path for another 400 meters and turning right to reach a rock that overlooks the eastern side for a mesmerizing sunrise.
A. Moe
We loved this beautiful track. It’s mostly uphill, so pace yourself and enjoy a slow, steady climb. Along the way, there are a few perfect spots to stop, catch your breath, and snap some great photos. The scenery is full of lush trees and peaceful nature, making the walk as relaxing as it is rewarding. We really enjoyed it and would come back to do it again. You can also bring something cute to pu...
J J
The walk itself is quite steep and there is nothing to see on the journey up due to the tree coverage. At the top there were some lovely views of the mountains but no view of Queenstown due to the tree growth. You can probably get a better view from the gondola. I personally think there are probably better hikes in the area with more to see
David Le
Great accessible walk located 5 minute drive from the town centre with plenty of parking. Well maintained walk track that I would happily take my young children on. Great views once you get to the Basket of Dreams and cute little fairy forest that the kids would enjoy. Super easy traverse down and spotted some deer and goats too. No bathrooms or water facilities so make sure to go toilet before yo...
Musab Alam
One of My Favourite Hikes on the South Island – Queenstown Hill Walkway Queenstown Hill Walkway quickly became one of my favourite hikes during my South Island adventure. It’s a relatively easy walk — it took me about an hour to reach the top and just 15–20 minutes to come back down — but the rewards at the summit are absolutely next level. I did the hike early in the morning, which made the exp...
In summer, start before 10 AM to avoid midday sun and wear sunscreen. In winter, check for icy patches and carry traction grips.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| DOC trailhead parking | NZD 0 |
| Bus fare (return) | NZD 5 |
| Snacks and water | NZD 10 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 15 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: 9300/58 Belfast Terrace, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
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