Experience New Zealand’s Most Epic Cycling Journey
The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail is one of New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring rides, stretching 315 kilometres from the base of Aoraki / Mount Cook to the Pacific Ocean in Ōamaru. This incredible multi-day trail takes you through ever-changing scenery—from towering alpine peaks and turquoise lakes to lush valleys and rolling farmland. It’s the ultimate way to experience the South Island’s natural beauty up close.
Designed for riders of all levels, the trail blends off-road tracks with quiet backcountry roads. Most cyclists complete the journey over four to six days, with plenty of time to stop and soak up the views, enjoy local hospitality, and explore fascinating heritage sites. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a first-time trail rider, Alps 2 Ocean offers an unforgettable adventure on two wheels.
Multi-Day Rides
Highlights Along the Alps 2 Ocean Trail
Your journey begins in the shadow of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. From here, you’ll glide past the vast landscapes of Braemar Station, through the Mackenzie Basin, and alongside the glassy waters of Lake Pūkaki and Lake Ōhau. The trail offers two starting points—one from Aoraki / Mt Cook village and another from Lake Takapō (Tekapo), where the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and stargazing opportunities await.
Further along, you’ll encounter marvels like the Benmore Dam, charming towns like Twizel and Ōtematata, and end your ride in the quirky coastal town of Ōamaru, famous for its Victorian architecture and blue penguin colony. The combination of wide-open landscapes and fascinating local experiences makes every section of this ride uniquely rewarding.
Top Things to Do Along the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail
- Start your ride at Aoraki / Mount Cook
- Take in the starry skies at Lake Takapō
- Explore Braemar Station’s high-country scenery
- Stop for coffee in the cyclist-friendly town of Twizel
- Ride the quiet shores of Lake Ōhau
- Visit Benmore Dam for impressive views
- Relax in the hot tubs at Ōtematata
- Wander the Victorian precinct in Ōamaru
- See the blue penguins at dusk in Ōamaru
- Ride the full 315km or enjoy individual sections
This section takes you from the stunning Aoraki/Mt Cook area to Braemar Road, cycling through the picturesque Mackenzie Basin with vast open landscapes and mountain views. The route includes a mix of off-road trails and quiet country roads.
Starting at Aoraki/Mt Cook, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the Tasman River and Lake Pukaki's turquoise waters. Explore nearby High Country Stations, walking tracks, and visit the DOC Visitor Centre for insights into the area's rich natural history.
- Grade: 2
- Distance: 35 km
- Skill Level: Suitable for intermediate riders with off-road cycling experience
- Fitness Level: Moderate fitness required; includes some uphill climbs and off-road sections
- Traffic: Low
- Trail Surface: 20% Smooth Shingle, 32% Rough Shingle, 48% Gravel Road, Less than 1% Dirt Track
This section continues from Braemar Road and takes you to the town of Twizel. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Mackenzie Basin as you cycle along quiet country roads and off-road trails. You'll experience a mix of flat sections and gentle climbs, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Grade: 2
- Distance: 40 km
- Skill Level: Suitable for riders with basic cycling skills
- Fitness Level: Moderate fitness required; includes some gentle climbs and off-road sections
- Traffic: Low
- Trail Surface: 43% Gravel Road, 12% Sealed Road, 45% Smooth Shingle
Traverse the vibrant turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki and cycle through the stunning Mackenzie Basin. This section offers expansive views of the Southern Alps, golden tussock plains, and the opportunity to visit the famous Mount John Observatory.
- Grade: 2
- Distance: 55 km
- Skill Level: Suitable for riders of all skill levels
- Fitness Level: Easy ride; mostly flat with some gentle gradients
- Traffic: Low
- Trail Surface: 19% Gravel Road, 46% Sealed Road, 35% Smooth Shingle
From Twizel, this section leads you to the beautiful Lake Ōhau Lodge. Ride through the scenic countryside, passing by farmland and enjoying views of the snow-capped Southern Alps. The trail includes some gentle climbs and off-road sections, providing a mix of terrain and breathtaking vistas.
- Grade: 2
- Distance: 38 km
- Skill Level: Suitable for riders with basic cycling skills
- Fitness Level: Moderate fitness required; includes some gentle climbs and off-road sections
- Traffic: Low
- Trail Surface: 72% Sealed Road, Less than 1% Grass Track, 28% Smooth Shingle
Continuing from Lake Ōhau Lodge, this section takes you to Ōmarama. Enjoy a relatively flat and straightforward ride along quiet country roads. The trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, farmland, and the expansive sky that the region is famous for.
- Grade: 3
- Distance: 43 km
- Skill Level: Suitable for intermediate riders
- Fitness Level: Moderate fitness required
- Traffic: Low
- Trail Surface: 27% Smooth Shingle, Less than 1% Dirt Track, 17% Rough Shingle, 11% Grass Track, 26% Gravel Road, 19% Sealed Road
From Ōmarama, you'll cycle towards Ōtematata, passing through the picturesque Waitaki Valley. Experience the natural beauty of the region as you ride along quiet country roads, with some off-road sections and gentle climbs. Enjoy the views of the Waitaki River and the surrounding landscapes.
- Grade: 3
- Distance: 35 km
- Skill Level: Suitable for riders with basic cycling skills
- Fitness Level: Moderate fitness required; includes some gentle climbs and off-road sections
- Traffic: Moderate
- Trail Surface: 53% Smooth Shingle, 47% Sealed Road
Leaving Ōtematata, this section takes you to the town of Kurow. Enjoy a relatively easy ride as you cycle through the beautiful Waitaki Valley. The trail is mostly flat with a few gentle gradients, offering scenic views of the river, farmland, and the surrounding hills.
- Grade: 3
- Distance: 44 km
- Skill Level: Suitable for riders of all skill levels
- Fitness Level: Easy ride; mostly flat with some gentle gradients
- Traffic: High
- Trail Surface: 1% Sealed Track, 99% Sealed Road, 9% Smooth Shingle
From Kurow, this section leads you to Duntroon. Enjoy a pleasant and easy ride through the picturesque countryside, with the trail mostly consisting of flat sections and some gentle gradients. Take in the views of the Waitaki River and the charming rural landscapes along the way.
- Grade: 2
- Distance: 27 km
- Skill Level: Suitable for riders of all skill levels
- Fitness Level: Easy ride; mostly flat with some gentle gradients
- Traffic: Low
- Trail Surface: 97% Smooth Shingle, 2% Gravel Road, 1% Sealed Road
The final section takes you from Duntroon to the coastal town of Ōamaru. Enjoy a mostly flat ride along quiet country roads, passing by farmland and rolling hills. The trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes as you approach the end of the trail at Ōamaru.
- Grade: 3
- Distance: 54 km
- Skill Level: Suitable for riders of all skill levels
- Fitness Level: Moderate fitness required; mostly flat with some gentle gradients
- Traffic: Moderate
- Trail Surface: 67% Smooth Shingle, 5% Sealed Track, 13% Gravel Road, 15% Sealed Road
When planning your trip along the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, it's important to consider various factors such as your fitness level, preferred cycling pace, available time, and the distance between trail sections. Here are some tips for trip planning and sample itineraries to help you get started:
Determine Your Cycling Pace and Fitness Level: Assess your cycling abilities and fitness level to gauge how far you can comfortably ride each day. Consider factors such as the terrain, elevation changes, and your overall endurance.
Allocate Sufficient Time: The entire trail typically takes 6 to 8 days to complete, depending on your pace and the side trips you choose to take. Ensure you have enough time to enjoy the scenery, explore attractions, and take breaks along the way.
Decide on Self-Guided or Guided: Determine whether you want to embark on a self-guided journey, navigating the trail independently, or opt for a guided tour with a tour operator. Guided tours can provide additional support, accommodations, and transportation logistics.
Sample Itineraries:
4-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Day 1: Aoraki-Mt Cook to Twizel
- Day 2: Twizel to Ōmarama
- Day 3: Ōmarama to Duntroon
- Day 4: Duntroon to Ōamaru
6-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Aoraki-Mt Cook to Twizel (via Braemar Road)
- Day 2: Twizel to Lake Ōhau Lodge
- Day 3: Lake Ōhau Lodge to Ōmarama
- Day 4: Ōmarama to Ōtematata
- Day 5: Ōtematata to Kurow
- Day 6: Kurow to Ōamaru
8-Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Aoraki-Mt Cook to Twizel (via Braemar Road)
- Day 2: Twizel to Lake Ōhau Lodge
- Day 3: Lake Ōhau Lodge to Ōmarama
- Day 4: Ōmarama to Ōtematata
- Day 5: Ōtematata to Kurow
- Day 6: Kurow to Duntroon
- Day 7: Duntroon to Ōamaru
- Day 8: Explore Ōamaru or departure
Side Trips and Attractions: Consider adding side trips to explore nearby attractions, such as visiting Lake Tekapo, the Clay Cliffs, or taking a scenic flight over the Southern Alps. Research and plan additional activities or points of interest that align with your interests.
Logistics and Transport: Arrange transportation to the starting point of the trail and from the endpoint of your journey. Consider shuttle services for transfers between trail sections or towns if needed.
