Come and experience one of the world’s great rail trails, and the warm Central Otago welcome that makes it unforgettable.
Cycling the Otago Central Rail Trail is one of the classic active experiences in New Zealand. When it first opened to the public in 2000, Trail Journeys were the first to offer bike rental on the trail and today are the leading cycle operator on the Otago Rail Trail.
The Otago Central Branch line was originally used to transport supplies to and from the Gold Fields and then later to transport goods and livestock. By the late 1980s the line was being used less and less it was decided that it would be developed into a trail that would be suitable for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. In 1993 the Department of Conservation (DOC) bought the corridor for a recreational reserve.
The Otago Central Rail Trail Trust was formed in 1994 to partner the Department, helping raise funds to initially open the Trail. The Rail Trail officially opened fully in 2000 and the teamwork between the Trust and DOC has continued. The Trail then become part of the New Zealand Cycle Trail network in 2012 and is the original ‘Great Ride’ of the Nga Haerenga project.
The Otago Central Rail Trail now runs between Clyde and Middlemarch and is New Zealand's most popular cycle trail, and it’s easy to see why. It is steeped in history and the vehicle free trail snakes its way through stunning scenery. There are also numerous activities to enjoy along the way including a river cruise in Alexandra, curling in Naseby, 4WD tours and much more.
If you are looking at a self guided cycling trip along the entire Otago Central Rail Trail, which is open year round, then the most popular option is between 3-5 days depending on how far you wish to cycle each day and how many activities you may like to include in your trip.
Day trips and guided tours are also popular options. The wide, compacted gravel trail has a maximum 1 to 50 gradient, making it an ideal ride for introductory cyclists or families.
The township of Clyde is located just 1 hour drive from Queenstown and Middlemarch is located 1 hour drive from Dunedin. Flying into Queenstown and out of Dunedin is a popular option for people wishing to cycle the Otago Rail Trail.