Lake Dunstan Trail

Stretching 55 kilometres along the shores of Lake Dunstan in Central Otago, this world-class cycling and walking trail delivers a thrilling blend of engineering marvels and breathtaking scenery. Carved into schist cliffs and suspended above the turquoise waters, the trail offers an exhilarating ride through historic gold-mining landscapes, with every bend revealing a new vista of mountains, vineyards, and the lake's sparkling expanse. Whether you're a dedicated cyclist or a casual walker, the Lake Dunstan Trail is an unforgettable journey through New Zealand's rugged heart.

Highlights & What to See

• Cromwell Heritage Precinct: Start or finish in this charming historic town, where gold-rush-era stone buildings now house artisan bakeries, galleries, and a fantastic fruit shop.
• Bannockburn Sluicings: Detour into a surreal landscape of abandoned gold-mining water races and tailings, with interpretive signs explaining the region's mining history.
• Hawksburn Viaduct: Pedal across this elegant 45-metre-high viaduct, a feat of modern trail engineering that offers dizzying views over the lake and vineyards below.
• Dunstan Creek Gorge: A dramatic section where the trail clings to sheer rock faces via cantilevered platforms, with the gorge plunging into deep blue water.
• Clyde Dam & Old Clyde Town: At the trail's southern end, explore the massive Clyde Dam and the well-preserved historic streets of Clyde, famed for its stone cottages and fruit orchards.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow a full day (6–8 hours) to cycle the entire trail one-way, with plenty of stops for photos and snacks. Most riders start in Cromwell and finish in Clyde, using a shuttle service to return. For a more relaxed pace, split the trail into two sections: Cromwell to Bannockburn (12 km, 2–3 hours) and Bannockburn to Clyde (43 km, 4–5 hours). Walkers can tackle shorter sections, such as the Cromwell to Bannockburn stretch, in a half-day.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Central Otago Wine Region: After the ride, visit cellar doors in Bannockburn and Gibbston, renowned for pinot noir and aromatic whites.
• Queenstown: A 45-minute drive from Cromwell, this adventure hub offers bungee jumping, jet boating, and stunning lake and mountain views.
• Wanaka: Less than an hour's drive, Wanaka is perfect for hiking, lake cruises, and the iconic #ThatWanakaTree photo.
• Otago Central Rail Trail: Combine with another classic cycle trail, this time through historic railway tunnels and across the Maniototo plains.
• Roxburgh Gorge Trail: A shorter but equally dramatic trail along the Clutha River, ideal for a second day of cycling.

Please check official sources for current details.