Skippers Canyon

Skippers Canyon, just a short drive from Queenstown and nestled in the mountains behind the renowned Coronet Peak, features a dramatic gorge carved by the Shotover River. This vast tussock-covered landscape is steeped in gold-mining history.

The road through Skippers Canyon, clinging to the cliffside high above the river, was built during the gold rush between 1883 and 1890—a remarkable engineering feat of its time. Today, it offers an adventurous 4WD experience.

During the gold rush, settlements quickly sprang up in the canyon, with over a thousand people once calling it home. Now, only remnants of this era remain, telling stories of a time when fortunes were made and lost.

An experience with BLACK into Skippers Canyon combines history, breathtaking scenery, and  adventure. Try your hand at gold panning in “The Richest River in the World” before riding in a high-speed jet boat ride through the canyon’s narrowest passages. This ultimate 4WD sightseeing tour offers a truly unique Queenstown adventure.

BLACK’s Skippers Canyon experience operates during the summer months, October to April, when the road is clear of snow. This guided tour includes a professional host from BLACK, private luxury transportation in a premium SUV, an exhilarating jet boat ride through the Shotover River, and breathtaking views of the canyon’s dramatic landscapes. Choose between half-day or full-day experiences, each tailored to provide the highest level of comfort and personalisation.