Lake Dunstan and Roxburgh Gorge

Trip Code: TJRD

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Trip highlights

Visit the vineyards of Bannockburn
Ride through the stunning Cromwell Gorge on the new Lake Dunstan Trail
Cycle through the remote, idyllic Roxburgh Gorge
Discover old gold mining relics and mining huts
Enjoy a jet boat transfer, and gold mining history tour on the Clutha Mata-Au River

We have combined the Lake Dunstan and Roxburgh Gorge trails for this two-day trip.

From Cromwell, you'll head through the wine country of Bannockburn before cycling the stunning Cromwell Gorge on the Lake Dunstan Trail, which features swing bridges and 'clip-on' trails.

Your ride through the vibrant Roxburgh Gorge will include a jet-boat transfer, where you'll learn about the gold mining history and see the remaining relics scattered along the hillside.

Scroll down to view the full itinerary, select your dates and fill out our enquiry form.

Itinerary

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Day 1
Lake Dunstan Trail: Cycle - 38 km

A morning briefing and bike fitting at our depot in Clyde will set you up for your first day of cycling on the Lake Dunstan Trail. Cycle through the Bannockburn wine country before heading through the breathtaking Cromwell Gorge along the Clutha/Mata-au River to Clyde, stopping at the coffee boat along the way (if it's there). Stay the night in Clyde.

Meals: B

Day 2
Clyde to Lake Roxburgh Hydro Dam: Cycle 29 km

Start your day today with a cycle from Clyde to Alexandra, either 8 km down the Rail Trail or 14 km on the slightly more technical but scenic river track. From Alexandra, you start the Roxburgh Gorge with a 10 km cycle to Doctors Point. You will board the jet boat and be transferred to Shingle Creek. Relax on board the boat while you take in the stunning scenery and history of the area as you make your way through the gorge—a highlight for many. From Shingle Creek, it is a further 11 km to the Roxburgh Hydro Dam, where you will be picked up this afternoon and shuttled back to Clyde.

Meals: Nil

Inclusions

What's included

Standard bike hire for 2 days including helmet, repair kit and odometer (e-bike upgrade available)
1 night's comfort accommodation on twin share basis, ensuited where available
Transport from Clyde to Cromwell
Transport from Roxburgh Hydro Dam to Clyde
Jet boat transfer and history tour: Doctors Point to Shingle Creek
Lake Dunstan & Roxburgh Gorge Trail Trust Donations

What's not included

Transport to/from Queenstown
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Optional activities and upgrades
Personal expenses
Travel insurance

Bike information

Electric Bike

E-bikes have made cycle touring possible and pleasurable for a wide range of people. They are simple to operate, and eliminate much of the cycling strain from legs and knees. Our European-designed E-bikes are built with comfort and ease of operation in mind, and feature unisex frames, 29” wheels, front suspension and proven Bosch electronics.

Standard Trail Bike

Our trail bikes are ideal for the Otago Central Rail Trail and other similar gravel trails. They feature an upright riding position, front suspension and a gel seat for maximum comfort. With their Australasian-designed Avanti frames and proven Shimano and Tektro componentry, these bikes ensure the best possible riding experience.

Low Step Trail Bike

Our low-step trail bikes are ideal for the Otago Central Rail Trail and other similar gravel trails. They feature an upright riding position, front suspension, swept back handlebars and a gel seat for maximum comfort, and a low-step frame to make getting on and off easy. With their Australasian-designed Avanti frames and proven Shimano and Tektro componentry, these bikes ensure the best possible riding experience.

Mountain Bike

Traditional mountain bikes are the bike of choice for more challenging terrain, or for those riders who prefer a more ‘aggressive’ riding position. Our mountain bikes feature 29” or 27.5” wheels, hydraulic disc brakes and front suspension.

Trail Surface

Compacted Gravel

Cyclists should be confident riding on compacted gravel, some uneven surfaces and riding up and down switch-backs.

Accommodation

Comfort Accommodation (Included)

Comfort accommodation is the perfect option for those looking for a clean, simple and comfortable way to enjoy their cycling holiday. Almost all locations will include ensuite facilities. These are a mix of motels, B&Bs, lodges and cottages.

Superior Level

A level above, superior accommodation oozes quality, comfort and character for you to indulge in at the end of a day’s cycling. Rooms include ensuited facilities and are a mix of motels, lodges, cottages and farmstays.

As the Roxburgh Gorge and Clutha Gold trails are situated in a remote area of New Zealand, there is limited availability for superior accommodation in some locations.

Add on a night

Additional nights in can be added onto any package, just ask us.

Grading

Introductory to Moderate
4

The Lake Dunstan and Roxburgh Gorge Trails have a mix of introductory and moderate-graded sections, with some sections being narrow, hilly and having tight turns. If you are not a regular cyclist or are worried about these features, we recommend practicing riding on trails with similar features before your trip. The more training you have done on compacted gravel and undulating hills, the more enjoyable your trip will be. E-bikes are also suitable if they are ridden appropriately and have sufficient battery capacity.

Departure dates

Departs daily

Want to organise a customised tour?

School groups, friends, family trips, corporate events and even making the trail accessible for everyone. Learn how you can organise a Customised Tour with Trail Journeys.

Priceper person from

$795NZD

Options & Supplements*

Transport from Queenstown to Clyde (return) - MIN 2 PaxNZD$170
eBike Upgrade (subject to availability)NZD$160
Transport from Queenstown to Clyde (return) - MIN 3 PaxNZD$140

*Prices listed are per person and also from

Trip reviews

Why travel with us

First On The Trail

Trail Journeys is the largest and longest serving bike hire business on the Otago Central Rail Trail. We have helped more cyclists explore our region since the trail opened in 2000 than any other company.

EXPERT LOCAL ADVICE

Our team is passionate about the Central Otago Region and their extensive knowledge and experience means you get the very best advice - every time. We will help you tailor the right cycling itinerary for your needs.

Quality services

Expect first-class and flexible support both on and off the trail. With regular bag, passenger and bike transport services, expert cycle mechanics and experienced consultants, enjoy a stress free cycling trip with Trail Journeys.