Overview
The Skippers Road was hacked by hand through solid rock, by men consumed by the lure of gold. Astonishing landscapes; dramatic topography, and the history of human endurance with intriguing commentary by four-wheel-drive professionals in total command of their surroundings. Rarely does a journey enjoy so many different experiences.
Hairpin switchbacks reveal every aspect of each indescribable view as well as the triumph of man’s will over the elements, as Land Rovers power steadily through, taming the seemingly impassable terrain to the abandoned township of Skippers, deep in the back country. British Automobile Association voted Skippers Canyon Road as one of the 25 most picturesque roads in the world. (Subject to road and weather conditions)
Details
Departures Daily
Start: Queenstown (8:15am or 1:30pm)
Finish: Queenstown (12:30pm or 5:30pm)
Includes:
- Gold Panning
- Refreshments
- Pickup from town centre or Queenstown accommodation
Pricing:
Cost per person
October 2024 - March 2025
6 seater vehicle
- Adult: NZ$285
- Child: NZ$150
4 seater vehicle (guaranteed forward facing seats)
- Adult: NZ$425
- Child: NZ$240
Private Charter
- Half day Private Charter: NZ$1,425 per vehicle
Child Age: 4-14 years inclusive
0-3 yrs free of charge
Currency ConverterOverview
The Skippers Road was hacked by hand through solid rock, by men consumed by the lure of gold. Astonishing landscapes; dramatic topography, and the history of human endurance with intriguing commentary by four-wheel-drive professionals in total command of their surroundings. Rarely does a journey enjoy so many different experiences.
Hairpin switchbacks reveal every aspect of each indescribable view as well as the triumph of man’s will over the elements, as Land Rovers power steadily through, taming the seemingly impassable terrain to the abandoned township of Skippers, deep in the back country. British Automobile Association voted Skippers Canyon Road as one of the 25 most picturesque roads in the world. (Subject to road and weather conditions)
Departing from Queenstown the Skippers Canyon 4WD tour starts out towards Coronet Peak. As you travel up the mountainside towards the entrance to this amazing gorge you will stop at The Plane Table, which provides a dramatic panoramic view of the Wakatipu Basin. After entering Skippers Canyon you will travel to Lighthouse Rock, which gives a spectacular lookout over the canyon. Follow in the footsteps of many adventurers and explorers as this historical twisting road takes you to historic Skippers Bridge, which gives an eye-catching photographic opportunity.
After cautiously negotiating the bridge, the road carries on to the historical township of Skippers. Abandoned for many years, many original buildings still remain waiting for you to explore. Indulge in morning or afternoon tea at the Skippers Schoolhouse. Immerse yourself in the history of this spectacular place as the restored schoolhouse reveals a wealth of information through pictures and relics from the early days of this settlement. The graveyard portrays a more depressing and hazardous life for these gold prospectors.
On the return trip you will stop at Deep Creek where you can submerge yourself in the heritage of the local district by turning your hand to a spot of gold panning. Our trained guides will teach you skills to successfully pan for gold on one of the richest gold bearing rivers in the world. Some may also be familiar with places beside the Skippers Road as being featured in The Lord of The Rings.
Cost per person
October 2024 - March 2025
6 seater vehicle
- Adult: NZ$285
- Child: NZ$150
4 seater vehicle (guaranteed forward facing seats)
- Adult: NZ$425
- Child: NZ$240
Private Charter
- Half day Private Charter: NZ$1,425 per vehicle
Child Age: 4-14 years inclusive
0-3 yrs free of charge
Departing from Queenstown the Skippers Canyon 4WD tour starts out towards Coronet Peak. As you travel up the mountainside towards the entrance to this amazing gorge you will stop at The Plane Table, which provides a dramatic panoramic view of the Wakatipu Basin. After entering Skippers Canyon you will travel to Lighthouse Rock, which gives a spectacular lookout over the canyon. Follow in the footsteps of many adventurers and explorers as this historical twisting road takes you to historic Skippers Bridge, which gives an eye-catching photographic opportunity.
After cautiously negotiating the bridge, the road carries on to the historical township of Skippers. Abandoned for many years, many original buildings still remain waiting for you to explore. Indulge in morning or afternoon tea at the Skippers Schoolhouse. Immerse yourself in the history of this spectacular place as the restored schoolhouse reveals a wealth of information through pictures and relics from the early days of this settlement. The graveyard portrays a more depressing and hazardous life for these gold prospectors.
On the return trip you will stop at Deep Creek where you can submerge yourself in the heritage of the local district by turning your hand to a spot of gold panning. Our trained guides will teach you skills to successfully pan for gold on one of the richest gold bearing rivers in the world. Some may also be familiar with places beside the Skippers Road as being featured in The Lord of The Rings.
