Queenstown , New Zealand

Cardrona Mountain Carting

Active

(34 reviews)

3h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Cardrona’s mountain carting is a gravity-fueled adventure like no other - no experience required! You can choose to self drive or book return transport from Queenstown, making it easy to get to the action.

With three wheels, three times the fun, and trails designed specifically for carting, this is one summer activity you’ll want to tick off your bucket list. Mountain carting at Cardrona is the only experience of its kind in the country and the only lift-accessed mountain carting in Australasia.

Enjoy two hours of thrilling downhill fun with as many chairlift uplifts as you can fit in. Explore three purpose-built trails stretching across 3km of stunning alpine terrain, whether you're chasing adrenaline, cruising with friends, or soaking in the views. After the fun, keep the good vibes rolling with a visit to the tasty Noodle Bar, where flavour packed delights meet stunning alpine views.

Available options

2pm Mountain Carting

2hr Mountain Carting session including lift pass, cart rental & full face helmet

1pm Mountain Carting

2-hour mountain carting session at 1pm. Includes lift pass, cart rental & full face helmet

11am Mountain Carting

2-hour mountain carting session starting at 11am. Includes lift pass, cart rental & full face helmet

Carting from Queenstown

Includes return transport from Queenstown and 2hr Mountain Carting session with lift pass, cart rental & full face helmet<br/>Pickup included

10am Mountain Carting

2hr Mountain Carting session starting at 10am. Includes lift pass, cart rental & full face helmet

3pm Mountain Carting

2-hour mountain carting session at 3pm. Includes lift pass, cart rental & full face helmet

5pm Mountain Carting

2hr Mountain Carting session at 5pm. Includes lift pass, cart rental & full face helmet

4pm Mountain Carting

2hr Mountain Carting session including lift pass, cart rental & full face helmet

12pm Mountain Carting

2hr Mountain Carting session including lift pass, cart rental & full face helmet

What's included

2hr Cart Hire & Lift Pass

Safety briefing

Full face helmet & overalls

Detailed itinerary

Let the good times roll with Australasia’s only lift-accessed mountain carting adventure. Experience gravity-fuelled action, non-stop fun and return transport from Queenstown included!

Once you've taken in the incredible sights down the Cardrona Valley from our Base area, head to Cart HQ to collect your full face helmet, overalls & cart. After a quick safety briefing you'll head to the lift and the action begins!

We've got three mountain cart trails to choose from starting right from the top of the resort, check out that view! The longest trail is over 3km & spans all the way out to Captain's Basin, & back to Whitestar Express - ride the lift & get faster on every lap as you become more familiar with the course & our unique mountain carts!

A 2 hour carting session provides access to McDougall's Chondola & Whitestar Express.

All done and want to celebrate your laps? Swing by The Lounge for a coffee and food or treat yourself to our wide selection of craft beers & local wines.

What's not included

available to purchase

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

30 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Minimum age to ride Mountain Cart alone - 8yrs old, minimum 12yrs to ride unsupervised

Weather in the alpine can vary greatly from that in the valley, please dress appropriately

Maximum weight 110kg

Meeting point

Cardrona is accessed via a 14km unsealed mountain road

Important notes

For self-drivers, arrival 30 minutes before session start time is essential for user instruction, gear fitting and safety briefing.
For those travelling on our transport from Queenstown, please check in with our guest services team on arrival to the mountain.

About Queenstown

Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities. This vibrant town offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both excitement and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Queenstown Garden

Queenstown Garden is a beautiful public garden located in the heart of the city. It offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Skyline Queenstown

Skyline Queenstown offers a range of activities, including the Skyline Gondola, Luge rides, and a restaurant with panoramic views of the city and lake.

Adventure 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive

Arrowtown Chinese Settlement

Arrowtown Chinese Settlement is a historic site that showcases the lives of Chinese miners during the Otago Gold Rush in the 1860s.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lamb

New Zealand lamb is renowned for its tender texture and rich flavor. It's often served with seasonal vegetables and local wines.

Main Course Contains meat

Green-Lipped Mussels

Green-lipped mussels are a delicacy in New Zealand, known for their unique flavor and texture. They're often served steamed with garlic, wine, and herbs.

Appetizer Contains shellfish

Pavlova

Pavlova is a popular dessert in New Zealand, made with a crisp meringue shell, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Dessert Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Bungee jumping Skydiving Jet boating Hiking Mountain biking Spa treatments Wine tasting Scenic cruises

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and a wide range of outdoor activities. It's ideal for hiking, water sports, and exploring the great outdoors.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Māori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Queenstown is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution when engaging in adventure activities and be aware of the weather conditions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Getting there

By air

Queenstown Airport • 5 km from city center

By bus

Queenstown Bus Interchange

Getting around

Public transport

Orion buses provide reliable and affordable transportation throughout Queenstown and to nearby attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Queenstown Frankton Arrowtown

Day trips

Milford Sound

120 km from Queenstown • Full day

Milford Sound is a stunning fjord known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife. A day trip to Milford Sound includes a scenic drive and a boat cruise through the fjord.

Glenorchy

45 km from Queenstown • Half day to Full day

Glenorchy is a charming village nestled at the head of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. It's a great base for hiking, horse riding, and other outdoor activities.

Wanaka

65 km from Queenstown • Full day

Wanaka is a picturesque town known for its stunning lake and mountain views, as well as its vibrant arts and culture scene. It's a great destination for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Festivals

Queenstown Winter Festival • June Gibbston Valley Winter Festival • July Arrowtown Autumn Festival • April

Pro tips

Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Book accommodations, tours, and transportation in advance, especially during peak season.
Dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Try local specialties like lamb, green-lipped mussels, and pavlova.
Explore beyond the city center and visit nearby attractions like Arrowtown and Glenorchy.