Otago Central Rail Trail

Stretching 152 kilometres through the rugged heart of the South Island, the Otago Central Rail Trail is New Zealand’s premier cycling and walking trail. Following a former railway line between Clyde and Middlemarch, this gentle, mostly gravel path winds through dramatic gorges, across viaducts, and past historic gold-mining towns. With virtually no hills, it’s accessible to riders of all fitness levels, offering a unique window into Otago’s pioneering past and its stark, beautiful landscapes.

Highlights & What to See

• Poolburn Gorge & Viaducts: One of the most scenic sections, where the trail clings to rocky cliffs and crosses lofty steel viaducts — keep an eye out for the historic Price’s Creek tunnel.
• Historic Gold-Rush Towns: Stop at Alexandra, Ranfurly, and Naseby. In Naseby, try curling at the indoor rink or explore the old streets lined with heritage buildings.
• Chatto Creek Tavern: A legendary pub where cyclists refuel with cold beer and hearty pies — it’s a classic Kiwi pit stop.
• Manuherikia River Valley: Pedal alongside the braided river, past willow trees and abandoned gold workings, with the Hawkdun Range as a backdrop.
• Middlemarch Finish: The trail’s eastern end offers a celebratory finish at the local café, with views of the Rock and Pillar Range.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most people take 3 to 5 days to cycle the full trail, staying overnight in the small towns along the way. A 4-day itinerary is ideal: start in Clyde, ride to Omakau (day 1), on to Oturehua (day 2), then Ranfurly (day 3), and finish in Middlemarch (day 4). If you’re short on time, you can ride shorter sections, like the 30 km stretch between Alexandra and Omakau, in a half-day. Walking the entire trail takes about 7-10 days. Book accommodation and bike hire in advance during peak season (October–April).

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown: 2 hours’ drive from Clyde; combine the trail with adventure activities and lake views.
• Wanaka: 1.5 hours from Cromwell; a gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park and the famous Roy’s Peak track.
• Dunedin: 1 hour from Middlemarch; explore the city’s Victorian architecture, wildlife on the Otago Peninsula, and the Taieri Gorge Railway.
• Alexandra & Clyde: The trail’s western end; Clyde is a charming heritage town with great cafés and a historic dam.

Please check official sources for current details.