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CLUTHA
MATA-AU
RIVER 172km by bike
Central Otago rapidly became a bucket list
destination for cyclists after the opening of the
iconic Otago Central Rail Trail in 2000. Since
then, a number of new bike trails have popped
up in the region, meaning there’s now even
more reason to visit. The following four trails
can be combined for 172km of stunning riding
along the winding banks and mighty gorges of
Central Otago’s Clutha Mata-au River.
ROXBURGH GORGE TRAIL: This trail is one of Central Otago’s
most visually spectacular rides. Scattered with remnants of the
gold rush, you’ll head deep into the remote Roxburgh Gorge
from Alexandra to the Lake Roxburgh Hydro Dam. To ride the full
trail, you’ll enjoy a jet boat transfer between Doctors Point and
Shingle Creek. Distance: 21km + 12km jet boat transfer
CLUTHA GOLD TRAIL: The Clutha Gold Trail continues along the
emerald waters of the Clutha Mata-au river and along an old branch
railway line to Lawrence. Brimming with gold mining history, this
easy trail is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the stunning rural
and riverside scenes of Central Otago’s Teviot Valley.
Distance: 73km
LAKE DUNSTAN TRAIL: The new trail on the block, the
Lake Dunstan Trail weaves it’s way along the shores of Lake
Dunstan from Smith’s Way to Cromwell’s Heritage Precinct.
It then heads through Bannockburn’s wine country and into
the remote Cromwell Gorge before finishing in the quaint
township of Clyde. Distance: 55km
ALEXANDRA TO CLYDE RIVER TRACK (Millennium Trail)
Popular with locals, this sheltered trail follows the true right of the
river, joining Clyde and Alexandra. Mainly single-track with some
small undulations and boardwalks, it’s a great alternative to the first
section of the Otago Central Rail Trail. Distance: 12km
READY TO RIDE?
Self-Guided – The Trail Journeys team have you covered
with self-guided cycling services across Central Otago.
info@trailjourneys.co.nz | trailjourneys.co.nz | 0800 724 587
Fully Supported – Ride these Central Otago trails and more on a
fully supported group tour with Adventure South NZ.
info@adventuresouth.co.nz | adventuresouth.co.nz | 0800 00 11 66