Lake Dunstan Trail

Carved into the rugged schist cliffs of the Cromwell Gorge, the Lake Dunstan Trail is one of New Zealand's newest and most spectacular cycling experiences. This 55-km (34-mile) gem hugs the turquoise shoreline of Lake Dunstan, offering jaw-dropping views of the Southern Alps and the dramatic landscapes of Central Otago. Whether you're a keen cyclist or a casual rider, the trail's combination of purpose-built boardwalks, suspension bridges, and gentle gradients makes it accessible to most fitness levels. The trail connects Cromwell and Clyde, winding through historic gold-mining sites, vineyards, and the eerie remains of the former Cromwell town, which was relocated before the lake was formed. It's a ride that feels both epic and intimate, with each bend revealing another postcard-perfect scene.

Highlights & What to See

• Cromwell Heritage Precinct – Explore the restored stone buildings and boutique shops of Old Cromwell Town, a slice of gold-rush history perched by the lake.
• Bannockburn Sluicings Historic Reserve – Detour to see the eerie, moon-like landscape created by 19th-century hydraulic gold mining.
• Pisa Range views – The trail offers uninterrupted panoramas of the Pisa Range and the distant Remarkables, especially stunning in late afternoon light.
• Hugo's Boardwalk – A thrilling section of the trail that clings to sheer cliffs above the lake, with a vertiginous drop to the water below.
• Clyde – The charming gold-rush town at the trail's southern end, with its historic bridge, artisan bakeries, and the Clyde Dam.
• Wine tasting in Gibbston Valley – The trail passes through the heart of Central Otago's wine country; stop for a tasting at a cellar door like Mt Difficulty or Carrick.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most riders take a full day to complete the trail one way (about 4–5 hours of cycling, plus stops). Start in Cromwell and ride to Clyde, then arrange a shuttle or cycle back if you're up for a longer day. For a more relaxed pace, split it over two days with an overnight in Clyde or Cromwell, allowing time for detours to historic sites and wineries. The trail is well-graded and mostly flat, so even beginners can enjoy the full route with a leisurely lunch break.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gibbston Valley – Just west of Cromwell, this sub-region is renowned for its pinot noir and the Gibbston River Trail, a shorter ride through vineyards.
• Queenstown – A 45-minute drive from Cromwell, Queenstown offers adventure activities, lake cruises, and the iconic Skyline Gondola.
• Wanaka – About an hour's drive north, Wanaka is a laid-back lakeside town with great hiking, the famous Wanaka Tree, and the challenging Roy's Peak Track.
• Alexandra – South of Clyde, this town is home to the Otago Central Rail Trail, another iconic cycling route through historic goldfields.
• Bendigo Historic Reserve – A short drive from Cromwell, this area features well-preserved gold-mining ruins and panoramic views of Lake Dunstan.

Please check official sources for current details.