Lake to Lake

Cromwell to Clyde or Alexandra
Riding Distance 42km (to Clyde) 54km (to Alexandra) | Grade 2-3

For many, the Lake Dunstan Trail is a highlight of their Otago biking experience. However, the trail should not be underestimated as it includes some challenging grade 3 sections which are narrow and exposed in places, as well as some long climbs.

From Cromwell the trail initially follows Lake Dunstan to Cromwell Heritage Precinct and then along the Kawarau River to Bannockburn, one of New Zealand’s most prolific wine-growing regions and a superb place to sample the world-renowned pinot noir. From Bannockburn the trail enters the Cromwell Gorge where you’ll experience dramatic cantilevered boardwalks which hug sheer rock walls and the impressive Hugo Suspension Bridge. Be aware that once you’re in the gorge, there are no other entry or exit points to the trail. It is also very exposed with little shelter from the elements and you’ll need to carry plenty of water and snacks.

At the end of the trail is the Clyde Dam, the construction of which between 1977 - 1989 formed Lake Dunstan itself. A visit to the dam on a guided tour is fascinating. After crossing the Mata Au | Clutha River the trail finishes in the historic town of Clyde where there are plenty of options for refreshments and accommodation.

Either stay in Clyde or follow the easy Alexandra to Clyde River Track downstream for 12km along the Clutha River to Alexandra.

To properly prepare for the Lake Dunstan Trail it's recommended that you watch this this short video.

Alexandra to Roxburgh
Riding Distance 21km plus 13km boat transfer | Grade 2-3

The Roxburgh Gorge Trail is ridden in two sections. The first part of the trail is a relatively easy grade 2 ride of 10km from Alexandra to Doctor’s Point. This section of trail currently ends here, and a jet-boat transfer is required to reconnect to the trail at Shingle Creek. (Bookings for the boat are essential). The commentary along the 13km boat trip provides a fascinating insight into the goldmining history of the area and is often a highlight of people’s ride.

At Shingle Creek it’s 11km to the Roxburgh Dam through wild and dramatic Central Otago landscapes. The trail is mostly grade 2, but towards the dam there is a steeper grade 3 section which includes some tricky switchbacks. Some people prefer to dismount and push their bikes here.

Accommodation is available in Lake Roxburgh at the end of the trail or alternatively cross the dam and connect to the Clutha Gold Trail at Commissioner’s Flat and an easy 9.4km ride to Roxburgh itself.

Alternate Route 
From Clyde or Alexandra, you also have the option to follow the Otago Central Rail Trail for 152km to Middlemarch where it’s then possible to connect via a transfer to Waihola and on to the Clutha Gold Trail for a full circumnavigation of Otago.

Roxburgh to Lawrence
Riding Distance 64km | Grade 2

Stock up with snacks and supplies in Roxburgh (a visit to Jimmy’s Pies is a must) before crossing the bridge and riding southward on the Clutha Gold Trail. The trail meanders along the river all the way to Beaumont with a variety of great picnic spots along the way. If you’re tempted by a swim in the summer, make sure to pick your spot carefully as the river is swift flowing with strong currents in places.

Not far beyond Millers Flat (19.6km from Roxburgh), a short walk off the trail to Horseshoe Bend Bridge is well worth a visit.

Two options for lunch along the trail are the Millers Flat Tavern or Beaumont Hotel – but check opening hours in advance.

After 44km, at Beaumont, farewell the Clutha River and continue along the trail for 19.4km to Lawrence. A highly recommended side trip from Lawrence is to visit Gabriel’s Gully which is an easy 4km detour (one way) from the trail. Gabriel’s Gully is where the Otago Goldrush started in 1861 and there’s an excellent interpretation walk which recounts the stories of the goldfield occupants with a series of informative panels as your guide.

Lawrence to Waihola
Riding Distance 62km | Grade 2

This remarkable 62km new section of trail opened in August 2023 and winds through rolling farmland all the way to Lake Waihola on the east coast. Currently, there are only a few options for coffee and lunch along this new section of trail, so make sure you caffeinate and fuel up in Lawrence before your ride – although there is a great stop for a second coffee and a scone in Waitahuna just 14km along the trail from Lawrence.

From Waitahuna the trail to Milton (31km) follows an old railway line for a while and includes two historic tunnels where a torch comes in very handy. Mt Stuart Reserve is a great spot for a snack break or picnic before arriving in Milton which is ideally located for lunch. Beyond Milton the trail runs parallel to SH1 for a short way and includes the funky Calder Stewart Bridges, before arriving at Lake Waihola after 17km with lengthy sections of boardwalk which flank the shoreline and wetlands. You’ll notice where local conservation groups are helping restore the native habitat along this section of trail and it’s a great place to see native wildlife.

Your journey ends at Waihola itself, where a cold beer at the Waihola Tavern or fish and chips on the lakefront are your reward for an epic ride across Otago.