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Lake Dunstan Trail

Central Otago, NZ

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LAKE DUNSTAN TRAIL - CYCLING SAFETY

Parts of the trail are in remote terrain with some challenging grade 3 sections. These sections are only suitable for confident, experienced cyclists and are not recommended for most children.

To understand what to expect and to prepare for your ride click below.

Read more about Lake Dunstan Trail

55km | Grade 2-3 | 1-2 Days

The Lake Dunstan Trail is the 23rd and newest trail in the Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand network and links the townships of Clyde and Cromwell. 

The trail offers cyclists and walkers a challenging 55km ride (Grade 2-3) through unique and fascinating landscapes so characteristic of Central Otago as it journeys along Lake Dunstan, the Kawarau River and the mighty Clutha River Mata-au.

Please note that parts of the trail are in remote terrain with some challenging grade 3 sections which are only recommended for confident and experienced cyclists. To understand what to expect, to help you choose the right section of trail for your ability, and how to prepare for your ride, click here.

NOTICE 23/09/2023: Due to heavy rain, there is some flood damage to the trail. The trail is open and damaged sections are passable, but please slow down and proceed with caution.

Cyclists and walkers experiencing the Lake Dunstan Trail will marvel at the man-made landscapes, the rich Maori and early pioneer history, and amble through the vineyards of Bannockburn.

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 and the Southern Lakes, and provides a key link with the Otago Central Rail Trail and the Roxburgh Gorge Trail, both of which are part of Ngā Haerenga Great Rides of New Zealand.

Lake Dunstan Trail Sections

Lake Dunstan Trail Map

Download PDF Map

Support the Lake Dunstan Trail

The Lake Dunstan Trail is managed by a not-for-profit charitable trust, so if you've enjoyed your ride or walk on the trail, then you're invited to make a donation towards its ongoing maintenance.

Or please provide your feedback by completing a trail survey so that improvements can continuously be made to the trail experience. Thank you.

Share your ride #lakedunstantrail #centralotagonz

Features Along the Trail

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