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From Discovery and CruisingTo Advanced Mountaineering Expedition
Ride the Most Dramatic Day Trail in New Zealand
The Lake Dunstan Trail is a South Island standout. A thrilling, one-day cycle that packs in big scenery, clever engineering and a true taste of Central Otago’s wild beauty. Starting in Cromwell, the trail follows the lake’s edge through vineyards and farmlands before plunging into a series of striking schist gorges on its way to Clyde. It’s a ride that feels like a journey, full of contrast, challenge and reward.
This 40km (24.85 mi) ride is best known for its suspended boardwalks clinging to the rock face and sweeping lake views. It’s not just the scenery that makes it special, it’s how immersed you feel in it. With purposely chosen directional riding from Cromwell to Clyde, you'll enjoy more downhill flow and the sun at your back, whilst generally riding with prevailing winds as well.
For Adventurous Spirits without the hassle
The Lake Dunstan Trail has enough variety to excite experienced cyclists, but is completely achievable for fit riders of most levels especially with an e-bike upgrade. The ability to add transfers to the ride makes it seamless, while the nearby Otago Rail Trail makes it easy to combine into a longer cycling escape through the region.
Refuel with Local Flavour
The Cromwell Heritage Precinct, will give you options of cafes and baked goods before setting off on your trail. Bannockburn vineyards offer a potential lunch stop and ending in Clyde, you can celebrate with a glass of Central Otago pinot noir, explore the historic precinct, or simply relax into the laid-back pace that defines this part of New Zealand.
What's not to love about one of New Zealand's best day cycles!
(4kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Cycle the Lake Dunstan Trail (40km/24.85mi)
A morning briefing and bike fitting at our depot in Clyde will set you up for your first day of cycling on the Lake Dunstan Trail. We will shuttle you through to the Cromwell Heritage Precinct, where you can grab a coffee before starting your ride. Cycle through to the Bannockburn wine-country, stopping at the Carrick Winery. 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 through the breathtaking Cromwell Gorge along the Clutha / Mata-au River to Clyde, enjoying lake views, clip-ons, bridges and climbs along the way. On arrival in Clyde, celebrate the day and the ride with a local Otago wine or a stroll around this quaint town. NOTE: Our winter shuttle (5th April to end of September 2026) requires a 9.00am check in at our Clyde depot. Our summer timetable requires an 8.00am check in.
Meals: Nil
What's included
What's not included
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. E-bike hire is subject to availability.
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.
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.
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.
Tandem mountain bike: A mountain bike built for two. Twice the fun? How good is your relationship?
Childrens’ bikes: Small bikes, with 20” wheels (single speed) or 24” wheels (seven gears, twist shift).
Please note: Childrens tag-alongs, bike seats or trailers aren't suitable on the Lake Dunstan Trail.
This trip is graded introductory to moderate and is suited to regular cyclists with a good level of fitness. E-bikes are suitable if ridden appropriately. There is a mix of introductory trails and moderate trails with some remote sections. The moderate trails have features such as switch backs, narrow tracks, hills, rocks, and tight turns. If you are not a regular cyclist or are worried about these features, practice riding on similar features at home or come back after having practiced on the Clutha Gold or Roxburgh Gorge Trail. You'll need to be comfortable riding 40-55km in one day including lunch and drink stops.
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