Otago Central Rail Trail

Stretching 150 kilometres between Clyde and Middlemarch, the Otago Central Rail Trail is New Zealand’s premier cycling and walking journey through the heart of the South Island. This gentle, traffic-free trail follows a historic railway line, crossing dramatic viaducts, burrowing through rock tunnels, and winding past gold-rush towns, tussock-covered hills, and braided rivers. It’s a ride that feels like a living museum, where every bend reveals a slice of Otago’s pioneering past and the wide-open landscapes that define the region.

Highlights & What to See

• Poolburn Viaduct & Tunnel – Soaring 36 metres high, this curved viaduct and the adjacent 600-metre tunnel (the longest on the trail) are a dramatic highlight, offering sweeping views over the Manuherikia Valley.
• Historic Railway Stations – Charming restored stations at places like Ranfurly, Wedderburn, and Omakau make perfect picnic stops, each with its own story and classic architecture.
• Chatto Creek Tavern – A legendary pit stop for cold beer and hearty pub grub, this 130-year-old tavern is a favourite among trail users.
• St Bathans – A short detour from the trail leads to this photogenic gold-mining village with its turquoise Blue Lake and historic Vulcan Hotel.
• Ida Valley & the Maniototo – Expansive, starkly beautiful plains dotted with sheep stations and the eerie remains of gold dredges, best appreciated on the middle section of the trail.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most riders take 4 to 6 days to complete the full trail, allowing time to soak in the scenery and explore side trips. If you're short on time, a 2- to 3-day itinerary covering the most scenic central section between Omakau and Middlemarch is a rewarding option. The trail is well graded and suitable for casual cyclists, e-bikes (recommended if you’re not used to long days), and walkers. Plan to stay overnight in the small towns along the way, each offering basic accommodation and a warm welcome.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown – A two-hour drive from Clyde, Queenstown offers adrenaline activities, lake cruises, and a vibrant food scene, perfect for pre- or post-trail indulgence.
• Wanaka – Just 45 minutes from Clyde, this lakeside town is a gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park and has a more relaxed vibe than Queenstown.
• Dunedin – A 1.5-hour drive from Middlemarch, Dunedin boasts Scottish heritage, a thriving café culture, and the Otago Peninsula’s wildlife.
• Alexandra – Known for its stone fruit orchards and the striking Central Otago landscapes, this town is a convenient start or end point for the trail.
• Naseby – A tiny, historic gold-mining village with a preserved 19th-century atmosphere, ideal for a half-day exploration off the trail.

Please check official sources for current details.