Place · 0.2 mi away
Overview
Sitting at the outlet of Lake Wakatipu in Frankton, the Old Kawarau Falls Bridge is a bite‑size dose of Queenstown history. Traffic now uses the newer two‑lane bridge beside it, leaving this one to walkers and cyclists—perfect if you're already cruising the Queenstown Trail and want a quick, quiet detour with context.
A bit of history
The bridge runs along the top of the Kawarau Falls Dam, completed in 1920 to hold back lake water in hopes of exposing downstream gold. The scheme never really paid off—the water didn’t drop enough, and returns were modest—but the single‑lane bridge built over the dam became an everyday lifeline for decades.
What it’s like today
With the modern highway bridge taking cars, this historic span has been preserved for people on foot and bike. It’s a short, atmospheric crossing where you can literally tread the line between past engineering ambition and today’s recreational trail network.
What it’s not
Don’t mix it up with the Kawarau Suspension Bridge out toward Gibbston—the one famous for bungy jumping. That’s a different site altogether.
Best time to visit
Our research lists no set hours. Treat it as a quick stop woven into a walk or ride on the Queenstown Trail—easy to enjoy whenever you’re passing through.
Pros
- Historic 1920 dam‑top bridge kept for walking and cycling
- Direct link on the Queenstown Trail
Cons
- No vehicle access
- Often confused with the bungy bridge in Gibbston
Tips
- Fold it into a Queenstown Trail ride or walk rather than making a special trip.
- Cars use the new SH6 bridge; this old span is for feet and bikes only.
- For bungy viewing or jumping, head to the separate Kawarau Suspension Bridge in Gibbston.
