Historic Skippers Bridge
A historic 1901 bridge and a thrilling, narrow mountain road offering breathtaking canyon views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views & safest drive
Historic Skippers Bridge
Best Time
Best views & safest drive
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1901 bridge and a thrilling, narrow mountain road offering breathtaking canyon views.
"The drive on Skippers Road is harrowing but absolutely worth it for the mine-blowing views!"
🚗 AWD is a Must
An AWD vehicle is essential for navigating the narrow, unsealed Skippers Road.
📸 Drone Photography
Bring a drone for incredible aerial shots of the gorge and bridge!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Skippers Bridge
Skippers Canyon
A 1901 marvel of engineering, this historic wooden suspension bridge spans a dramatic gorge over 100m above the river.
Skippers Canyon Gorge
Skippers Canyon
Breathtaking river gorge and landscapes offering incredible photo opportunities.
The Thrill of Skippers Road
Access road to Skippers Bridge
A harrowing yet rewarding single-lane drive carved into the mountainside.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer Skippers Road
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 AWD is a Must
An AWD vehicle is essential for navigating the narrow, unsealed Skippers Road.
📸 Drone Photography
Bring a drone for incredible aerial shots of the gorge and bridge!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
The drive itself takes about an hour each way, so plan accordingly.
↔️ Drive with Caution
Be prepared to reverse on narrow sections if you meet oncoming traffic.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 AWD is a Must
An AWD vehicle is essential for navigating the narrow, unsealed Skippers Road.
📸 Drone Photography
Bring a drone for incredible aerial shots of the gorge and bridge!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
The drive itself takes about an hour each way, so plan accordingly.
↔️ Drive with Caution
Be prepared to reverse on narrow sections if you meet oncoming traffic.
🏞️ Soak in the Views
The scenery is spectacular; take your time to enjoy it.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking scenery and the thrill of the drive along Skippers Road, calling it a highlight of their New Zealand trips. The historic bridge is a marvel, and the canyon offers incredible photo opportunities. However, the challenging, narrow road requires a suitable vehicle and confident driving, which can be daunting for some.
"Absolutely loved loved loved if you have the vehicle and the guts to take the road it's absolutely worth it!"
Sandra w
"Perhaps my favorite experience in New Zealand over a 2 week road trip across both islands. Skippers Road and the famous wood suspension bridge built in 1901. The 1 hour drive on Skippers Road - a single lane road carved into the side of the mountain - is a bit harrowing. When we crossed the bridge, each mirror on our SUV had less than a foot of clearance on each side. We had the place pretty much to ourselves. Only a few locals. Fantastic river gorge and landscapes. Loads of photo opportunities, especially if you have a drone. THIS IS NZ!"
Peter L
"Grate place to visit also mine blowing views ! You won’t regret, just need a AWD car and good feelings to enjoy the journey.. Cheers 🤩"
Tito Vanni
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The only way to reach Historic Skippers Bridge is by driving Skippers Road, a famous single-lane, unsealed track carved into the mountainside near Queenstown. It's crucial to have an AWD or 4WD vehicle and be comfortable with challenging driving conditions.
Skippers Road is known for being narrow and winding, with sheer drop-offs. While many visitors find it exhilarating, it requires a confident driver and a suitable vehicle. Be prepared for potential encounters with oncoming traffic and the need to reverse.
Many rental car companies prohibit driving on unsealed roads like Skippers Road. Always check your rental agreement. If permitted, ensure you have an AWD or 4WD vehicle. Alternatively, consider a guided tour.
The drive from Queenstown to Skippers Bridge typically takes about 1 hour each way, depending on road conditions and how often you stop for photos.
No, there are no public transport options to Skippers Bridge. Driving yourself or taking a guided tour are the only ways to access it.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit the Historic Skippers Bridge or the surrounding canyon. Access is free for those who drive themselves.
The bridge and canyon are accessible at any time, but it is highly recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best viewing experience.
Limited parking is available near the bridge, but it can fill up quickly. Be prepared to park a short walk away if necessary.
Yes, you can walk across the Historic Skippers Bridge. It offers a unique perspective of the canyon and the river below.
There are no facilities such as restrooms or shops at the bridge itself. It's advisable to use facilities in Queenstown before you depart.
📸 📸 Photography
The bridge itself offers iconic shots, especially from the canyon floor or viewpoints along Skippers Road. The winding road provides dramatic perspectives of the gorge.
Yes, drones are permitted and offer incredible aerial views of the bridge and the vast Skippers Canyon. Ensure you are aware of any local drone regulations.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful light for photography, highlighting the textures of the bridge and the rugged canyon landscape.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the canyon, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details on the bridge or wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions.
While not specifically for the bridge, many Queenstown-based photography tours may include Skippers Canyon as part of a broader scenic tour.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Adventure Seekers & Road Trip Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers & Drone Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legendary Skippers Road
Despite the driving challenges, the rewards are immense. The journey provides breathtaking panoramas of the Shotover River and the rugged Skippers Canyon. Many travelers consider this drive one of their favorite experiences in New Zealand, highlighting the raw, untamed beauty of the landscape.
Engineering Marvel: Historic Skippers Bridge
Visitors are consistently awestruck by its scale and the dramatic setting. The bridge offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the sheer depth of the gorge and the powerful river below. Walking across it provides a tangible connection to the past and a thrilling perspective of the surrounding natural beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit