Lake Dunstan & Roxburgh Gorge Cycle

Lake Dunstan Trail | Natalie Tambolash

A stunning day cycling the Roxburgh Gorge | Geoff Marks

Lake Dunstan credit: Geoff Marks | Geoff Marks

Cycling high above Lake Roxburgh | bennettandslater.co.nz

Lake Dunstan Trail | Natalie Tambolash

A stunning day cycling the Roxburgh Gorge | Geoff Marks

Lake Dunstan credit: Geoff Marks | Geoff Marks

Cycling high above Lake Roxburgh | bennettandslater.co.nz

Introductory to Moderate

Activities

2 days self guided cycle

Accommodation

1 night's comfort level accommodation on a twin share basis, ensuited where available

Meals

1 Breakfast

Price

ON SALE

2 daysfrom

$950 NZD

$902NZD

View all pricing

View Inclusions

Overview
Itinerary
Map
Inclusions
Bike Information
Trail Surface
Accommodation
Suggested extensions
Grading
Departure dates
Videos
FAQs
Trip reviews
Why travel with us
Similar trips

Trip Code: TJD

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Trip highlights

Visit the vineyards of Bannockburn
Ride through the stunning Cromwell Gorge on the scenic Lake Dunstan Trail
Cycle through the remote, idyllic Roxburgh Gorge
Discover old gold mining relics and mining huts
Enjoy a jet boat transfer, and gold mining history tour on the Clutha Mata-Au River
Great short cycle for a quick getaway or weekend escape

If you are short on time, or wanting a memorable weekend escape, the our Lake Dunstan & Roxburgh Gorge Cycle is the trail for you.

Combining two of Central Otago’s most spectacular day rides into one unforgettable cycling escape, pairing the dramatic lake-edge scenery of the Lake Dunstan Trail with the remote backcountry beauty of the Roxburgh Gorge Trail. With a relaxing overnight stay in the historic town of Clyde, this fully supported adventure is the perfect short getaway for riders wanting to experience two of New Zealand’s most talked-about cycle trails in one rewarding trip.

Your journey begins on the breathtaking Lake Dunstan Trail, where dramatic boardwalks and suspension bridges cling to towering schist cliffs above the turquoise waters of the lake. Winding between Cromwell and Clyde, this remarkable trail showcases the rugged beauty and pioneering spirit of Central Otago, with ever-changing lake and mountain views around every corner. Along the way, stop in Bannockburn to sample Central Otago wines, local stone fruit and vineyard café cuisine before continuing through one of New Zealand’s most visually spectacular cycling landscapes.

After a relaxing evening in Clyde, a charming heritage town known for its stone buildings, boutique cafés and restaurants and welcoming atmosphere and hospitality, the adventure continues on the unforgettable Roxburgh Gorge Trail.

Following the Clutha Mata-Au River deep into the heart of the gorge, this trail delivers a completely different riding experience, with remote riverside tracks, rugged rocky bluffs and hidden valleys rich in gold mining history. One of the highlights of the day is the jet boat transfer through a section of the gorge inaccessible by bike, from Shingles Creek to Doctors Point, adding a true sense of adventure to the journey while offering a unique perspective of this remarkable landscape.

With smooth riding trails, incredible scenery and two distinctly different cycling experiences, the Lake Dunstan & Roxburgh Gorge Cycle is ideal for couples, friends and active travellers looking for a memorable Central Otago escape filled with adventure, scenery, great local food and genuine southern hospitality.

Carbon Footprint

20kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(40kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Itinerary

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Day 1
Cycle the Lake Dunstan Trail (40km/24.85mi)

This morning we transfer you from Clyde to the Cromwell Heritage Precinct, where you will set off for your day on the Lake Dunstan Trail. Cycle through the Bannockburn perhaps enjoying a stop at Carrick Winery on the way through. Enjoy delicious food and wine whilst overlooking the stunning Bannockburn Inlet from their restaurant. Choose from their seasonal menu which showcases the best local produce and organic ingredients fresh from their garden or enjoy a coffee and pizza alfresco. Continue cycling through the breathtaking Cromwell Gorge along the Clutha/Mata-au River to Clyde. Key features of the trail are the man-made landscapes, superb views from the trail summit, abundant vineyards and cellar doors in Bannockburn. Overnight in the comfort of your Clyde accommodation.

Meals: Nil

Day 2
Cycle the Roxburgh Gorge Trail from Clyde to Roxburgh (44km/27.34mi)

Start your day today with a cycle from Clyde through to Alexandra, either 8kms down the Rail Trail or 14kms kilometres on the slightly more technical, but scenic river track. From Alexandra, you start the Roxburgh gorge, with a 10kms cycle to Doctors Point where you join the jet-boat transfer to Shingle Creek. Keep an eye out for historic gold mining relics and huts as you make your way through the gorge. A highlight for many, with commentary of the gold mining history scattered in the hillside. From Shingle Creek, it is a further 11 km to the Roxburgh Hydro Dam. Cross the dam and ride 10km down the Clutha Gold trail to Roxburgh township where you will be picked up and shuttled back to Clyde.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.

Inclusions

What's included

Standard bike hire for 2 days including helmet, repair kit and odometer (e-bike upgrade available)
1 night's comfort accommodation on twin share basis, ensuited where available
Transport from Clyde to Cromwell
Transport from Roxburgh Hydro Dam to Clyde
Jet boat transfer and history tour: Doctors Point to Shingle Creek
Lake Dunstan & Roxburgh Gorge Trail Trust Donations

What's not included

Transport to/from Queenstown
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Optional activities and upgrades
Personal expenses
Travel insurance

Bike information

Electric Bike

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.

Standard Trail Bike

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.

Low Step Trail Bike

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.

Mountain Bike

Traditional mountain bikes are the bike of choice for more challenging terrain, or for those riders who prefer a more ‘aggressive’ riding position. Our mountain bikes feature 29” or 27.5” wheels, hydraulic disc brakes and front suspension.

Trail Surface

Compacted Gravel

Cyclists should be confident riding on compacted gravel, some uneven surfaces and riding up and down switch-backs.

Accommodation

Comfort Accommodation (Included)

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.

Superior Level

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 Roxburgh Gorge and Clutha Gold trails are situated in a remote area of New Zealand, there is limited availability for superior accommodation in some locations.

Add on a night

Additional nights in can be added onto any package, just ask us.

Grading

Introductory to Moderate
4

The Lake Dunstan and Roxburgh Gorge Trails have a mix of introductory and moderate-graded sections, with some sections being narrow, hilly and having tight turns. If you are not a regular cyclist or are worried about these features, we recommend practicing riding on trails with similar features before your trip. The more training you have done on compacted gravel and undulating hills, the more enjoyable your trip will be. E-bikes are also suitable if they are ridden appropriately and have sufficient battery capacity.

Departure dates

Daily departures 01 September to 15 May.

Notes

Note:

Prices are based on minimum transfer numbers being met on the shuttles. Surcharges may apply if minimum numbers have not been reached.

Want to organise a customised tour?

School groups, friends, family trips, corporate events and even making the trail accessible for everyone. Learn how you can organise a Customised Tour with Trail Journeys.

Priceper person from

$902NZD

Options & Supplements*

Transport from Queenstown to Clyde/Cromwell (return) - Min 2 PaxNZD$170
Transport from Queenstown to Clyde/Cromwell, one way - Min 2 PaxNZD$95
Electric Bike UpgradeNZD$170
Superior Accommodation Upgrade - Twin/Dbl, per personNZD$110
Clyde/Alexandra Wine Tour - 3 hours - Min 2 paxNZD$180

*Prices listed are per person and also from

Videos

Cycle the Roxburgh Gorge | Trail Journeys NZ

Trip reviews

Why travel with us

First On The Trail

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.

EXPERT LOCAL ADVICE

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.

Quality services

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.