Central Otago Rail Trail

Stretching 150 kilometres through the starkly beautiful landscapes of Central Otago, the Central Otago Rail Trail is New Zealand's premier cycling and walking experience. Following the route of the old Otago Central Railway, this gentle, well-graded trail winds through historic gold-mining towns, across dramatic viaducts, and past the region's iconic schist-rock landscapes. Whether you tackle it over several days or sample a section as a day ride, the trail offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of New Zealand's golden past.

Highlights & What to See

• Clyde: Start or end your journey in this charming heritage town, with its restored stone buildings, the Clyde Dam, and the excellent Olivers Restaurant & Brewery.
• Poolburn Viaduct: One of the trail's most photographed spots, this towering viaduct offers sweeping views over the Poolburn Gorge.
• Omakau & Ophir: Pedal through these historic settlements, where Ophir's 1886 post office and the old stone jail are must-sees.
• Chatto Creek Tavern: A classic country pub serving hearty meals and cold beers – the perfect midday pit stop.
• Alexandra: Known for its fruit-growing and the striking Alexandra Clock, this town offers hot pools and the nearby Manuherikia River trail.
• Ranfurly: The trail's northern terminus, famous for its art deco architecture and the quirky Ranfurly Hotel.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most riders take 3 to 5 days to complete the full trail, allowing time to explore the towns and soak in the scenery. If you're short on time, a day trip from Queenstown or Wanaka covering the best sections – such as the Clyde to Omakau stretch – is a popular option. The trail is non-technical and suitable for beginners, with bike hire and shuttle services available in Clyde and Alexandra.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown: Just over an hour's drive from Clyde, this adventure hub offers bungee jumping, lake cruises, and vibrant dining.
• Wanaka: A scenic 90-minute drive from Alexandra, Wanaka is perfect for hiking, lake activities, and visiting Puzzling World.
• Arrowtown: A beautifully preserved gold-rush town with leafy streets, boutique shops, and the Arrow River.
• Glenorchy: At the head of Lake Wakatipu, Glenorchy is a gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park and the Routeburn Track.

Please check official sources for current details.