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Best of Classic Otago Rail Trail – Wedderburn to Clyde Cycle takes you through the most scenic and rewarding section of New Zealand’s original Great Ride, following the trail from Wedderburn, the historic midway point of the Otago Central Rail Trail, through to Clyde in the heart of Central Otago. Perfect for those short on time but still wanting the classic Otago Rail Trail experience, this fully supported cycling adventure showcases the trail’s most iconic highlights, combining spectacular scenery, fascinating railway history and relaxed riding over several memorable days.
Beginning in Wedderburn, the trail winds through expansive tussock country, quiet rural landscapes and beautifully preserved railway heritage sites that capture the pioneering spirit of the region. One of the standout highlights is the dramatic Poolburn Gorge, where the trail crosses impressive stone viaducts and passes through hand-carved tunnels that remain some of the most photographed and memorable features of the entire Rail Trail. Surrounded by rugged schist landscapes and sweeping Central Otago views, this section offers an unforgettable glimpse into the engineering feats of the old Otago Central Railway.
Along the way, ride through character-filled towns such as Oturehua, Lauder and Alexandra, where heritage pubs, country cafés and warm southern hospitality provide welcoming stops at the end of each day. Take a photo of the highest point on the trail, or stop in to visit one of New Zealand’s oldest General stores. Explore old railway precincts, pause for coffee in historic stations and soak up the relaxed pace and big-sky beauty that make this region so special.
With gentle gradients, smooth trail surfaces and manageable daily distances, the ride is achievable for a wide range of cyclists while still delivering a wonderful sense of adventure and accomplishment. Luggage transfers and seamless support throughout the journey allow you to simply enjoy the ride and immerse yourself in the scenery, history and atmosphere of the trail.
Ideal for travellers wanting to experience the very best of the Otago Central Rail Trail in a shorter timeframe, the journey from Wedderburn to Clyde captures the trail’s most iconic scenery and heritage highlights. The perfect weekend getaway or short cycling experience.
36kg of CO2-e PP per day
(36kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Cycle Wedderburn to Omakau/Ophir (41-43km/25.47-26.71mi)
A morning briefing and bike fitting at our Clyde depot will set you up for your first day of cycling. We'll shuttle you to Wedderburn, where you'll begin your ride. The first town along the way is Oturehua (approx 12 km), an excellent spot for morning tea or lunch. Places of interest in and around the town are Gilchrist's Store, the Historic Hayes Engineering Workshop and Homestead, and the remains of the Golden Progress Mine just north of the trail. The next part of the trail, the Poolburn Gorge, is one of the most spectacular, featuring two tunnels and viaducts in a secluded rocky setting. The trail then continues through the township of Lauder and then on to Omakau to your accommodation. ** Due to availability, your accommodation will be in either Omakau or Ophir tonight.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Cycle Omakau/Ophir to Clyde (37-39km/22.99-24.23mi)
Today’s ride brings you from Omakau (or Ophir) through to Clyde. You will pass through Chatto Creek along the way, and the tavern is a great place to stop for morning tea, although it generally doesn't open until 12pm. The trail then follows the Manuherikia River to Alexandra. There are options galore for lunch including one cafe situated right beside the trail. If time allows, you may one to stop at one of the wineries on the last stretch for a wine tasting, with several situated right beside the Rail Trail.
Meals: B
What's included
What's not included
Our trail bikes are ideal for the Otago Central Rail Trail and other similar gravel trails. They feature an upright riding position, front suspension and a gel seat for maximum comfort. With their Australasian-designed Avanti frames and proven Shimano and Tektro componentry, these bikes ensure the best possible riding experience.
E-bikes have made cycle touring possible and pleasurable for a wide range of people. They are simple to operate, and eliminate much of the cycling strain from legs and knees. Our European-designed E-bikes are built with comfort and ease of operation in mind, and feature unisex frames, 29” wheels, front suspension and proven Bosch electronics.
Our low-step trail bikes are ideal for the Otago Central Rail Trail and other similar gravel trails. They feature an upright riding position, front suspension, swept back handlebars and a gel seat for maximum comfort, and a low-step frame to make getting on and off easy. With their Australasian-designed Avanti frames and proven Shimano and Tektro componentry, these bikes ensure the best possible riding experience.
Small bikes, with 20” wheels (single speed) or 24” wheels (seven gears, twist shift).
Tow bike – A ‘third wheel’ trailer fitted with handlebars, pedals and seat for a small child.
Child’s trailer – A covered two-wheeled trailer, designed for 1-2 smaller children.
Child’s seat – Fitted in place of a carrier on one of our trail bikes.
The majority of the Otago Central Rail Trail is compacted gravel with wide trails, making it suitable for introductory riders or higher and wide enough to ride along-side others. Cyclists need to be comfortable riding on compacted gravel and there are some narrow cattle-stop grates and "chicanes" (s-shaped safety gateways).
Comfort accommodation is the perfect option for those looking for a clean, simple and comfortable way to enjoy their cycling holiday. Almost all locations will include ensuite facilities. These are a mix of motels, B&Bs, lodges and cottages.
A level above, superior accommodation oozes quality, comfort and character for you to indulge in at the end of a day’s cycling. Rooms include ensuited facilities and are a mix of motels, lodges, cottages and farmstays.
As the Otago Central Rail Trail is situated in a remote area of New Zealand, there is limited availability for superior accommodation in some locations.
Additional nights at the start and end of your trip can be added onto any package, just ask us.
Add on a Haye's Engineering Works tour of the workshop and homestead of Ernest and Hannah Hayes, 19th-century pioneers whose resourcefulness, skill and determination define the spirit of 'Kiwi ingenuity'.
Book a private and relaxing wine tour to some of our local Otago winegrowers. The Otago region is the world’s southern most commercial wine growing region and famous worldwide for our Pinot Noir.
There are a number of quality vineyards to choose from, some with views that will take your breath away. Our team can help you plan your itinerary so that you can include a visit - and a tasting - at one of our Otago vineyards.
Cycle the Lake Dunstan Trail from Cromwell to Clyde, taking in glistening lakes, mighty gorges and wine country. Stay the night in the quaint town of Clyde before starting your Otago Rail Trail adventure.
The 2-Day Otago Central Rail Trail is graded introductory with an average cycling distance of 40km per day. The trail is wide with a compacted gravel surface and a gentle 1 to 50 gradient. You will need a reasonable fitness level, and we recommend training on compacted gravel trails, and completing a multi-day ride prior to your trip to get used to being in the saddle for long periods. The more training you have done on compacted gravel, the more enjoyable your trip will be. E-bikes are also suitable if they are ridden appropriately and have sufficient battery capacity.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
Trail Journeys is the largest and longest serving bike hire business on the Otago Central Rail Trail. We have helped more cyclists explore our region since the trail opened in 2000 than any other company.
Our team is passionate about the Central Otago Region and their extensive knowledge and experience means you get the very best advice - every time. We will help you tailor the right cycling itinerary for your needs.
Expect first-class and flexible support both on and off the trail. With regular bag, passenger and bike transport services, expert cycle mechanics and experienced consultants, enjoy a stress free cycling trip with Trail Journeys.
4Days
Introductory
5Days
Introductory to Moderate
6Days
2Days
3Days