Traveling in New Zealand’s South Island, you’ll find no shortage of adventure activities. Yet, the mountain carting experience at Cardrona Alpine Resort is truly unique, offering a gravity-fueled ride that’s accessible to almost everyone. Designed for those seeking thrills without the need for previous experience, this activity promises a mix of adrenaline, breathtaking scenery, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes it stand out among outdoor pursuits.
We’re intrigued by the fact that it’s Australasia’s only lift-accessed mountain carting experience—think about that for a moment. Unlike other downhill activities that require pedaling, pushing, or technical skills, this one is as simple as hopping on and letting gravity do the work. Two hours of nonstop downhill fun over three purpose-built trails, unlimited chairlift rides, and a chance to relax afterward with some local food and drinks is hard to beat for a day out in the mountains.
One thing to consider: the road up to Cardrona isn’t the smoothest, which might make some travelers cautious. Also, the activity isn’t suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or anyone with certain health issues. But if you’re after a fun, accessible, and scenic adventure that offers more than just a quick thrill, this experience is worth considering. It’s especially perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a different way to enjoy New Zealand’s stunning alpine environment.
Key Points
- No experience needed: The activity is designed for all skill levels.
- Unique in Australasia: Only lift-accessed mountain carting available in the region.
- Unlimited uplift: You can ride as many times as you like during the two-hour session.
- Stunning trails and views: Three purpose-built trails across 3km of alpine terrain.
- Relaxing après-ride options: Food, craft beer, wine, and coffee at the Noodle Bar.
- Family-friendly: Suitable for most ages above 8, with safety considerations.
What’s the Experience Like?
Imagine sitting comfortably in a three-wheeled cart, with a simple safety harness, as you glide down purpose-built trails carved into the mountain’s terrain. The activity is all about fun and not fuss, with zero riding experience required. The trails are designed for downhill excitement, so whether you’re chasing adrenaline or just cruising and soaking up the scenery, you’re in for a treat.
The activity kicks off at the Cardrona ticket office, where a safety briefing is given 30 minutes before your scheduled ride. This is a good time to ask questions, get fitted with any safety gear, and absorb the instructions for a smooth experience. From there, it’s a quick ride up via chairlift or gondola, offering a chance to enjoy the mountain views before the downhill begins.
During your two hours, you can hop on the lifts as many times as you like, making it easy to maximize your downhill runs. The three trails stretch across a total of 3 km, offering different levels of thrill and scenery. One reviewer noted, “Good fun, adequate timing to do multiple runs,” highlighting the flexibility of this experience. The trails are purpose-built for carting, ensuring safety and fun are balanced.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cardrona.
The Trails and the Downhill Ride
The purpose-built trails are the heart of the experience. They’re crafted to maximize downhill excitement while keeping safety in check. With three different routes, you can choose your adventure—whether you want a gentle cruise or a more exhilarating ride. The scenery alone makes this worthwhile; expect sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, lush alpine flora, and perhaps even some wildlife.
The lift system is a significant advantage. Unlike similar activities where you might need to hike back up or pedal uphill, here you can simply ride the chairlift or gondola each time, saving your energy for the downhill. This setup allows for unlimited uplifts, meaning more runs and more fun without extra cost or effort.
Reviewers like Rheanna appreciated the friendly staff, noting that the team added to the overall experience with their professionalism. Conversely, Hannah mentioned the road up could be uncomfortable, which is worth considering if you’re prone to car sickness or prefer smoother rides.
Safety and Accessibility
While the activity is designed for most people above 8 years old, it does come with some restrictions. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems or mobility issues, or anyone over 110 kg (243 lbs). It’s important to arrive prepared with closed-toe shoes, as sandals or flip-flops are not allowed for safety reasons.
The activity requires participants to provide their date of birth, height, and full name for booking purposes. It’s a well-organized setup that emphasizes safety and ensures the appropriate equipment is used. The track access via chairlift or gondola** is convenient, but travelers should be aware of the mountain’s terrain and the potential for a bumpy ride to the start point.
Value for Money
At first glance, the price might seem steep for a two-hour activity, but the unlimited uplifts and multiple trails make it a good deal for thrill-seekers and casual riders alike. Several reviews mention the activity as good value, especially since you can go on as many runs as you like within the time frame. The added bonus of relaxing with food, craft beer, and local wines at the nearby Noodle Bar enhances the overall experience.
The option to reserve and pay later offers flexibility, which is handy for travelers planning their itinerary. The full refund policy if you cancel 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind for those unsure of weather conditions or scheduling conflicts.
More Great Tours NearbyPost-Ride Relaxation and Food
After the adrenaline subsides, you’ll probably want to unwind. The Noodle Bar at Cardrona serves up tasty, well-loved dishes that complement the mountain views nicely. You can indulge in local wines and craft beers, giving you a chance to relax and recount your downhill adventures.
This aspect of the experience is often appreciated by visitors, especially those who enjoy combining outdoor activity with good food and drink. It’s a relaxed way to end a high-energy activity, giving you time to reflect and enjoy the mountain ambiance.
Who Will Love It?
This activity is most suited for families, friends, and solo travelers looking for a fun, accessible adventure. The scenic trails and lift system make it a great choice for those who want to enjoy downhill mountain biking without the technical skills or physical exertion. It’s also a good fit for adventure seekers of all ages above 8, provided safety restrictions are considered.
If you’re after a thrilling, scenic, and social activity that doesn’t require prior experience or a lot of physical effort, mountain carting at Cardrona will fit the bill. It’s perfect for those who want a bit of adrenaline, stunning mountain vistas, and a relaxed post-ride atmosphere.
The Sum Up
Mountain carting at Cardrona offers a genuinely fun and accessible way to enjoy New Zealand’s stunning alpine environment. Its lift-accessed trails and unlimited rides make it a flexible and exciting activity suitable for a wide range of visitors. The combination of thrilling downhill tracks, friendly staff, and panoramic views ensures a memorable outing, especially if you like your adventures with a side of relaxation and good food.
For families, groups, or solo travelers looking to add some adrenaline to their trip without the technical challenges of mountain biking or downhill skiing, this activity presents excellent value. Just remember the safety restrictions and road conditions, and you’re set for a memorable mountain day.
Whether you’re racing your friends or simply soaking in the scenery from your cart, mountain carting at Cardrona is a solid choice that balances fun, scenic beauty, and safety. It’s a highlight for anyone wanting to experience New Zealand’s mountains in a playful, laid-back way.
Is prior experience required for mountain carting at Cardrona? No, the activity is designed to be accessible for all skill levels, with no experience needed.
How long does the activity last? The scheduled experience lasts two hours, during which you can ride as many times as you like with unlimited uplifts.
What should I bring? You need to bring closed-toe shoes; sandals or flip-flops are not allowed for safety reasons.
Are there age restrictions? Yes, participants must be at least 8 years old. The activity is not suitable for children under that age.
Can I cancel my booking? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is it suitable for pregnant women or those with health issues? No, pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility issues, or those over 110 kg are not advised to participate.
What’s the cost and value? While prices vary, many find the activity to offer good value, especially since you can do multiple runs within the two-hour window.
What happens if I have an accident? The medical team at Cardrona is described as professional and helpful, and safety gear is provided. Always follow safety instructions to minimize risks.
This combined mix of fun, scenery, and safety makes mountain carting at Cardrona a compelling choice for anyone seeking a memorable alpine adventure.
You can check availability for your dates here: