Pros & cons
PROS
- Old bridge walkway with classic views of the Remarkables
- Easy riverside paths for relaxed walks and bike spins
CONS
- No on-site toilets
- Tree cover can block river views in places
Overview
This is a local-favorite green strip where the Kawarau River slips out of Wakatipu and the Remarkables fill the skyline. It’s simple, scenic, and close—more a breezy leg-stretcher than a big-ticket destination.
What You’ll See
Think open lawns, riverbank track, and mountain backdrops. Cross the old bridge (now a pedestrian walkway) for the money shot of the Remarkables. You’ll also spot remnants of historic dam structures with steel-gated spillways, and on a busy day speedboats zipping through the gates add a little drama.
Trails & Activities
A shared-use path threads along the river with spur trails slipping through trees to the bridge. It’s an easy wander or a quick spin on a bike—perfect for an evening walk or a short fresh-air break. If you’re feeling energetic, link in from the Queenstown Trail near the Hilton for a longer out-and-back.
Wildlife
Expect common river and bush birds along the banks and in the sheltering trees. Keep your eyes up in the quiet stretches; this is more about light and landscape than wildlife, but birdlife adds some pleasant background.
Facilities & Logistics
Amenities are minimal: parking and benches, but no toilets within the reserve. It’s open all hours, so you can slide in for sunrise or a post-dinner stroll. Plan bathroom stops in Frankton before or after.
Best Time to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon gives softer light on the mountains and fewer people. If the river is shaded or views feel hemmed in by trees, head onto the bridge or down to the riverside track for clearer sightlines.
Is It Worth It?
If you’re nearby, absolutely—twenty to forty minutes here pairs well with a coffee run or a longer ride. If you’re short on time and chasing blockbuster vistas, prioritize higher-elevation lookouts; this one’s a mellow, convenient fix of river-and-mountain scenery.
Where it is
-45.0298, 168.7369Tips for Kawarau Falls Scenic Reserve
- 01There are no toilets in the reserve—plan a stop in Frankton.
- 02For the best Remarkables views, walk the old bridge and look upriver.
- 03Early morning or late afternoon light flatters both river and mountains.
- 04If trees block the river, drop to the riverside track or head onto the bridge.
- 05Link from the Queenstown Trail near the Hilton if you want a longer outing.
Amenities
Near Kawarau Falls Scenic Reserve
All places →All trails →
0.2 mi awayKawarau Falls Bridge (Old), FranktonHistoric dam-top bridge now for walkers and cyclists
0.9 mi awayFrankton BeachQuieter lakeside swim spot with big Remarkables viewsRestroom · Parking
1 mi awayDriftaway CampgroundModern lakeside holiday park with hot tubs and knockout viewsCampground · Restroom
2.3 mi awayJacks Point TrackLakeside singletrack with big Remarkables views and a breezy vibeModerate · 8.7 mi · 4 hr
2.5 mi awayLower Shotover BridgeHistoric truss bridge with big river views on the Queenstown TrailRestroom · Exhibit
3.4 mi awayQueenstown Hill Time WalkShort, steady climb to Queenstown’s best skyline and lake viewsModerate · 3.1 mi · 2.5 hr
3.7 mi awayQueenstown Gardens Lakefront LoopEasy lakeside loop through Queenstown’s gardens with constant viewsEasy · 1.2 mi · 30 min
3.9 mi awayTiki TrailShort, steep climb to Skyline’s knockout Queenstown and Wakatipu views.Moderate · 2.6 mi · 2 hr
