Otago Central Rail Trail

Stretching 150 kilometres through the heart of Central Otago, the Otago Central Rail Trail is New Zealand’s premier cycling and walking journey, following the historic railway line from Middlemarch to Clyde. This gentle, mostly gravel path winds through dramatic gorges, across viaducts, and past old gold-mining settlements, offering a uniquely Kiwi outdoor experience that combines gentle exercise, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes. The trail is suitable for most fitness levels, with plenty of charming towns along the way for food, wine, and rest stops.

Highlights & What to See

• Poolburn Gorge & Viaducts: The most spectacular section, with towering rock walls, a long tunnel, and the impressive Poolburn Viaduct – a photographer’s dream.
• Historic Railway Stations: Charming restored stations at places like Ranfurly, Wedderburn, and Omakau, each with local museums or cafes.
• Chatto Creek Tavern: A classic country pub serving hearty meals and cold beers – a perfect lunch stop.
• Old Gold Mining Towns: Explore remnants of the Otago gold rush at St Bathans, Naseby, and the ghost town of Ophir.
• Wine Tasting in Alexandra & Clyde: The trail ends near some of Central Otago’s best pinot noir vineyards – reward yourself with a tasting.
• Manuherikia River Bridges: Several historic bridges cross the river, offering great views and photo opportunities.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most people take 3 to 5 days to cycle the full trail, staying overnight in the small towns along the route. If you’re short on time, you can easily do a day ride on the most scenic section (e.g., from Ranfurly to Omakau or Alexandra to Clyde). Walkers should allow 5 to 7 days. The trail is well-signposted and can be done in either direction; many riders start in Middlemarch to enjoy a gentle downhill gradient toward Clyde.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Alexandra: The trail’s western terminus, known for its fruit-growing heritage, the Clock Tower, and nearby goldfields.
• Clyde: A historic town with a beautifully preserved main street, great cafes, and the Clyde Dam – also a great spot to start or finish.
• Queenstown & Wanaka: Both are about 1.5 hours’ drive from Alexandra and offer world-class adventure activities, lake scenery, and more wine regions.
• Dunedin: A 1.5-hour drive from Middlemarch, this city boasts Victorian architecture, the Otago Peninsula wildlife, and a vibrant food scene.

Please check official sources for current details.