BEAT THE HEAT
A Guide to Sun Safe Summer Cycling in Otago
Exploring Otago’s cycle trails is a perfect summer holiday activity: golden landscapes, blue skies, real fruit ice creams and idyllic swimming spots in crystal clear lakes and rivers. But with all that sunshine comes the challenge of staying cool and sun safe.
No worries. We’ve got you covered - literally!
Here are some tips to ensure your Otago bike adventure is a breeze, not a burn this summer.
Sunrise Rides
Summers in Otago are hot, and the mercury can regularly hover around 30°C. But there’s magic in the early hours – cool air, serene trails, and a sunrise that will take your breath away. Set off at dawn to avoid the midday heat, and by lunchtime, you’ll chilling in the shade at a cool trail town café or picnic spot. Plus, you’ll have earned that second ice cream…
Slip, Slop, Slap... and Reapply!
The sun in Otago doesn’t mess around, so neither should you. Slather on broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before you hop on the bike. Remember the tricky spots: ears, the back of your neck, and the tops of your hands. And don’t forget to reapply every couple of hours – sweat and sunscreen are not long-term allies.
Find out how to Be Sunsmart here.
Beat the heat with a glorious sunrise ride - Clutha Gold Trail, Lake Waihola.
Cover Up in Style
Think lightweight, UV-blocking fabrics that are breathable. Long sleeves might sound crazy in summer, but they’re your best defence against UV rays. Sunglasses are essential – for both form and function.
Don’t be tempted to wear a sunhat or cap underneath your helmet, as this can compromise the effectiveness of your helmet in the event of an accident.
Read more about correct helmet fitting here.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate…
Cycling is thirsty work, and Otago’s dry heat can leave you parched before you know it. Pack plenty of water (a minimum 2litres per person is recommended for exposed routes like the Lake Dunstan Trail) and sip regularly – don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Adding electrolytes to your water can help replace what you sweat out.
Make sure you plan and research your trip including where you can refill bottles. Many of Otago’s trails are through remote backcountry areas where potable water might not be available. Always treat any water collected from creeks or streams.
Long sleeves are excellent protection from harsh UV rays (Roxburgh Gorge Trail).
There is very little shade or shelter on the Lake Dunstan Trail (pictured) or Roxburgh Gorge and Rail Trail.
Perfect Pit Stops
The Otago bike trails are dotted with charming trail towns, perfect for cooling down. Seek out riverside picnic areas, shady trees, or a local café for a real fruit ice cream or iced coffee. With many of the trails following rivers or lake shores, you’re never too far from somewhere to dip your toes in the cool water during or after a ride. But take care along rivers and pick safe swimming spots away from dangerous currents or fast flowing water.
Be aware that there may be little or no shade along the trail – especially on the Lake Dunstan Trail, Roxburgh Gorge Trail and sections of the Otago Central Rail Trail.
There are some sensational swimming spots along the Otago Trails! (Lake Dunstan)
Many of the trails follow lakes and rivers, like the Queenstown Trails around Lake Whakatipu.
Perfect pit stops... should always include ice cream in the summer!
A perfect picnic pit stop on the Clutha Gold Trail (photo: James Hustler).
Know Your Limits
Heat exhaustion is no joke. Watch for symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or excessive sweating. If you feel unwell, stop immediately. Find shade, hydrate, and take a breather.
Carefully plan your route and perhaps avoid long hill climbs, especially in the midday summer sun.
Make It Fun: Snap and Slap
If you’re riding with kids, turn your sunscreen reapplications into mini pit stops. Snap a quick photo, share a laugh, have a snack or check your route while you reapply. It’s a good excuse to pause and appreciate the scenery.
Plan to avoid long, steep climbs during the hottest parts of the day (Cairnmuir Ladder, Lake Dunstan Trail)
Make stops to reapply sunscreen fun! (Playground on the Lake Dunstan Trail).
There's nothing better than a cold beer at the end of a ride, but drink responsibly.
Plan Your Day Like a Local
Locals know the drill: ride early, relax during the heat of the day at a good swimming or picnic spot, and cruise into the evening with a cold beer from a craft brewery. Otago’s long summer days mean there’s no rush. Take your time to enjoy each trail and reward yourself with a sunset ride – the golden hour glow is pure magic.
Diving into summer on the Lake Dunstan Trail...
Related Stories
-
Bikepacking for Beginners
A no-stress guide for your first bikepacking adventure.
Read more about Bikepacking for Beginners -
It's Not About the Bike
Myth busting! A guide to cycling holidays for beginners.
Read more about It's Not About the Bike -
Affordable Cycling Holiday Tips
Tips for an affordable cycling holiday.
Read more about Affordable Cycling Holiday Tips -
-
Gravel Biking - A Cycling Revolution
Otago has become recognised as one of the world's best gravel biking destinations.
Read more about Gravel Biking - A Cycling Revolution -
Adventure Made Easy
8 benefits of booking your next Otago cycling holiday through a bike tour company.
Read more about Adventure Made Easy
