Clutha Gold Trail - Photo and Video Gallery
The newly opened 62km extension to the Clutha Gold Trail between Lawrence and Waihola marks the conclusion to a major project which now connects the existing network of trails in Central Otago and Clutha to establish a continuous cycle path all the way to the East Coast.
The Clutha Gold Trail - one of the Great Rides of New Zealand - now measures 135km of grade 1-2 off road cycle track and traverses dynamic landscapes from the banks of the Mata Au | Clutha River to woodland glades and the wetlands of Lake Waihola.
- photography by Geoff Marks and Will Nelson
Video: The Clutha Gold Trail
Connecting from the Roxburgh Gorge Trail to the Clutha Gold Trail is as simple as crossing the Roxburgh Hydro Dam.
From the start of the trail at the Dam, its 9.5km to Roxburgh. Cross the bridge to find a great selection of cafes in town.
Roxburgh is a perfect break for coffee, lunch or to stay the night. Check out 103 The Store for great food & coffee or the world-famous Jimmy's Pies!
From Roxburgh Dam, the trail follows the river for about 50km all the way to Beaumont.
The historic Horseshoe Bend footbridge is a must-see, and just a short walk from the trail.
Another bridge - the iconic blue bridge over the Clutha River at Miller's Flat.
The trail is graded easy to moderate (grade 1-2) although there are some gentle climbs and sharp corners.
The trail can be ridden year-round...
....and with a generally smooth and wide surface, it's suitable for most beginners and families.
There are lots of great picnic spots for families along the trail. [Photo: James Hustler | Southern Way].
Gabriel's Gully
The discovery of gold at Gabriel's Gully by Gabriel Read in May 1861 was the start of the Central Otago goldrush. The 4km detour (approx 20mins ride time) from Lawrence to explore the heritage site is one of the highlights of the trail. Click below to find out more.
It's a 14km ride from Lawrence to Waitahuna where you'll find the refurbished railway station....
....and coffee!
From Waitahuna the trail follows the route of the old railway through rolling countryside...
...and includes two old railway tunnels (so bringing a head torch is a good idea)!
Lush woodland glades are a unique characteristic of this Otago trail.
The trail passes over and under an old railway viaduct on the way to Mount Stuart Reserve.
Old railway cuttings make for a great cycle trail gradient!
Crossing another bridge, this time approaching Milton.
Forte Cafe in Milton is a welcome coffee or lunch stop.
The spectacular boardwalk section around Lake Waihola and the wetlands.
Lake Waihola is one of the trail highlights.
Fish and chips on Lake Waihola is the perfect conclusion to the Clutha Gold Trail!
Related Stories
-
Bridges of the Otago Trails
Otago Bridges - a travel guide for walkers and cyclists
Read more about Bridges of the Otago Trails -
In Pictures - the Queenstown Trails
A stunning photo gallery of the Queenstown Trail - a network of over 130km of purpose-built walking and cycling trails.
Read more about In Pictures - the Queenstown Trails -
In Pictures - The Otago Central Rail Trail
Best of the Otago Central Rail Trail - a stunning video and photo gallery.
Read more about In Pictures - The Otago Central Rail Trail -
Coronet Loop Lite
A shortened version of the Coronet Loop starting from Skippers Saddle and finishing in Arrowtown.
Read more about Coronet Loop Lite -
Best Things Along Dunedin Harbour Cycleway
11 of the best things to see and do along the new Dunedin Harbour Cycleway.
Read more about Best Things Along Dunedin Harbour Cycleway -
The Cairnmuir Circuit
A classic Central Otago mountain bike or gravel bike loop ride, including the Lake Dunstan Trail.
Read more about The Cairnmuir Circuit -
The Best Pies in Otago
A guide to the best pies in Otago along the cycle trails.
Read more about The Best Pies in Otago -
Correct Helmet Fit
A quick guide to correctly fitting your bike helmet.
Read more about Correct Helmet Fit -
10 Tips for Winter Riding
10 great tips for winter riding on the Otago Trails.
Read more about 10 Tips for Winter Riding -
11 of the Best Short Walks in Otago
11 of the best short walks in Otago and close to the cycle trails, ranging from 30 minutes up to 3 hours.
Read more about 11 of the Best Short Walks in Otago -
The Clutha Gold Trail Expansion
A remarkable 62km extension to the Clutha Gold Trail is nearing completion. This ambitious project will connect the existing network of trails in Central Otago and Clutha, establishing a continuous cycle path all the way to the East Coast.
Read more about The Clutha Gold Trail Expansion -
Wheel Life
Rob McFarland of Explore Magazine on cycling New Zealand's latest spectacular Great Ride
Read more about Wheel Life
