Lake Dunstan Trail

The 55km Lake Dunstan Trail takes you from Smith’s Way, just out of Cromwell to Clyde along Lake Dunstan, the Kawarau River and the stunning Cromwell Gorge.

Key features of the trail are the man-made landscapes, rich Maori and early pioneer history, abundant vineyards and cellar doors in Bannockburn and the Historical Precinct in Cromwell.

The Lake Dunstan Trail complements many other well-established Great Rides in Central Otago and provides a key link with the Otago Central Rail Trail and the Roxburgh Gorge Trail.

Book a bike and shuttle or talk to us about an overnight self-guided trip on this exciting trail.

Lake Dunstan Trail Bike Hire

All bike hire's include a helmet, repair kit and rear carry bag.
E-bikes are subject to availability.
The Cromwell Gorge section between Cornish Point and Clyde is not suitable for very young children that require a tag-along, bike seat or trailer. Older children who are experienced riders should be okay but need enough fitness, gearing and bike skills to manage tight corners and some switch-back climbs.

Lake Dunstan Trail Transport

We can provide shuttles to other local starting points such as the Cromwell Heritage Precinct and Pigeon Rock for $15pp.
If you are bringing your own bike, we charge a small bike transfer fee. It can take a bit of time to adjust your bike to our trailers.

Lake Dunstan Trail Map

Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail Map | <i>Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail</i>

Lake Dunstan Trail Sections

Smith's Way to Cromwell Heritage Precinct: 16.4km

This part of the trail is relatively flat and meanders alongside the Lake Dunstan and the inlets of Pisa Mooring’s to the Cromwell Heritage Precinct. Here you will take a step back in time to the gold rush and explore heritage buildings, scattered with artisan businesses.

Cromwell Heritage Precinct to Bannockburn Bridge - 6km

Bannockburn Bridge to Cornish Point - 7.3km

Cornish Point to Clyde - 25km

Responsible travel

Cycling is an excellent way to reduce your impact when exploring our amazing landscapes however our commitment to operating sustainable travel experiences extend beyond offering a carbon friendly activity.

New Zealand is precious, and everyone who lives and travels here has a responsibility to look after it. That’s why we’ve taken the Tiaki Promise: a commitment to care for New Zealand, for now and for future generations.

By following the Tiaki Promise, we’re making a commitment to New Zealand, to act as a guardian, protecting and preserving our beautiful home.

Nau Mai, Haere Mai Ki Aotearoa, Welcome to New Zealand.