BUILD IT AND THEY WILL COME
Opened in May 2021, the Lake Dunstan Trail is an engineering masterpiece that has quickly become one of New Zealand's most popular trails and is the 23rd, and latest, of the country's Great Rides.
The short video below provides an insight into the scale and complexity involved in the trail's construction.
- Produced by Crux -
- Shot and edited by James Haskard, produced by Georgia Merton in partnership with Two Bearded Men using funding from NZ On Air -
Southern Lens - The Ultimate Bike Trail
The Southern Lens team records the engineers building the Lake Dunstan Trail as they literally blasted and bridged their way through the Cromwell Gorge.
Play Video
Constructing the Lake Dunstan Trail was more than your usual trail build...
Ropes, climbing harnesses and head for heights were essential on the build.
The complex build relied on helicopter support for materials.
With no other access into the Cromwell Gorge, helicopters were essential.
The stonework on the retaining walls on the trail is a work of art.
Negotiating steep bluffs and cliffs.
SUPPORT THE TRAIL
The initial building of the Lake Dunstan Trail was funded by Government, the Central Lakes Trust and Otago Community Trust.
However, the ongoing maintenance of the trail relies heavily on donations. If you have ridden the trail and would like to contribute to its upkeep then you can make a donation by clicking below. Thank you.
MORE INFORMATION
To find out more about the Lake Dunstan Trail, including tips to help plan for your ride, trail safety, and maps click the link below.
Related Stories
-
Otago's Signature Tracks
Best short rides on the Queenstown Trails
Read more about Otago's Signature Tracks -
Otago's Classic Hits
Highlights of the Otago Central Rail Trail and Lake Dunstan Trail
Read more about Otago's Classic Hits -
Otago’s Greatest Hits
Highlights of the Clutha Gold and Roxburgh Gorge Trails
Read more about Otago’s Greatest Hits -
Reclaiming Wild
Two gutsy girls on an epic bikepacking mission to celebrate their 50th birthdays.
Read more about Reclaiming Wild -
Hawksburn - Thomsons Gorge Gravel Bike Double
An epic 12hour, 210km gravel bike mission through Central Otago.
Read more about Hawksburn - Thomsons Gorge Gravel Bike Double -
One Day Winter Wonders
The best bike rides on the Otago cycle trails in winter.
Read more about One Day Winter Wonders -
Clyde Dam Tour
A tour of the Clyde Dam is a unique opportunity to explore this icon of the Lake Dunstan Trail.
Read more about Clyde Dam Tour -
Best Bakeries in Otago
From cinnamon scrolls to cheese rolls - a guide to the best trailside bakeries in Otago.
Read more about Best Bakeries in Otago -
25 Years On Track
The old and the new - celebrating 25 years of the Otago Central Rail Trail
Read more about 25 Years On Track -
Neat Trail Places
An insider's guide to the neatest places along Central Otago's bike trails.
Read more about Neat Trail Places -
