Lake Dunstan Trail
Travelling along (and above!) the edge of the beautiful Lake Dunstan as the wonders of modern engineering connect you with the rich history of the region.
You will pass by historical Maori sites, early settler villages, and see the modern marvel of engineering that is the Clyde Dam.
NB: All our packages and bike hire come with brand new bikes and equipment including high end Bosch e-Bikes, Trek trail bikes, new panniers and MIPS helmets.
Distance
Ride Time
Grade
42km
4-6 hours
2-3
Need to know more? Check out this map of the Lake Dunstan Trail for all the details!
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From Clyde you head out over the Clyde Bridge then turn right and head down to meet the trail heading towards the Clyde Dam and Dunstan Arms Rowing Club. This section features New Zealand’s third largest hydro-dam – the Clyde Dam, in which the first power was generated in 1992.
As you continue on to Halfway Hut, you will have plenty of picnic spots to stop at for a quick break. Closer to Halfway Hut you will find a short switch back section with tight corners and a good climb/descent.
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This section requires more attention and skill, as has narrow sections and more gradient. It’s also the section with the highest point of the trail, with magnificent views to take in. The Hugo suspension bridge is in the middle of this section. Coffee Afloat awaits your arrival at the Cairnmuir Gully, with yummy coffee and a selection of treats.
Fueled up, you will start to see the first of the bluff bridges. you will cycle at the base of the stonework faces of the Cairnmuir slide, a unique feature high on the slopes above the lake.
As you continue towards Cornish Point cycling though vineyards and olive groves you come to Carrick Winery & Restaurant, pop off your bike and enjoy a glass of wine with a bit of lunch prior to heading towards Bannockburn Inlet, a popular rest stop with a designated swimming area.
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The trail continues, taking you under the Bannockburn bridge as you follow Lake Dunstan to Cromwell Heritage Precinct. Stop to explore the boutique galleries, stores, and food and drink before the trail continues to Smiths Way.
This stretch is filled with easily accessible sections of the lake for picnics, swims, and views of the water and its activities.
The region’s rich modern, pioneering and Maori historical stories are integrated along the way, some of which are brought to life in the Clyde and Cromwell Historical Precinct.
The Lake Dunstan Trail extends and complements the well-established Great Rides in Central Otago, providing a key link with the Otago Central Rail Trail and the Roxburgh Gorge Trail.
Lake Dunstan Safety Video
The Lake Dunstan Trail is a purpose built 55km cycling and walking trail that traverses some of Central Otago’s most dramatic landscapes & scenery. It’s New Zealand’s latest Great Ride and has quickly become one of the most popular trails in the country.
However, a large part of the trail is in remote terrain with some challenging grade 3 sections only suitable for confident cyclists.
To understand what to expect and to help plan for a safe and enjoyable ride, then please watch this short safety video.
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