queenst cycLake Dunstan Track and Cycle Trail

South Island

Ride Through a Landscape Carved by Gold and Water

The Dunstan Cycle Trail is a 55 km Grade 2–3 route that runs between Cromwell and Clyde, following the edge of Lake Dunstan through rugged terrain shaped by both nature and history. This modern trail is part of New Zealand’s Great Rides network and is quickly gaining fame for its engineering feats and breathtaking views.

Highlights include a 40-metre-long clip-on suspension bridge, cantilevered boardwalks clinging to the cliffside, and tunnels carved into schist rock. Along the way, riders pass orchard country, vineyards, and remnants of the Otago gold rush. It’s a thrilling one-day ride or a memorable addition to a multi-day Otago cycle tour.

Two cyclists at the Cromwell start point of the Lake Dunstan Trail.

Cyclist arriving at Carrick Winery on the Lake Dunstan Trail in Bannockburn.

Family cycling group stopping beside Lake Dunstan

Two cyclists beside vineyard near Cromwell on Lake Dunstan Trail

Lakeside gravel trail on the Lake Dunstan route in Central Otago.

Two cyclists ride along the Lake Dunstan Trail with turquoise waters and rugged mountains in the background

Cliff-hugging boardwalk section of the Lake Dunstan Trail known as the ‘clip-on’.

Group enjoying pizza and wine outdoors at a winery near the Lake Dunstan Trail in Central Otago

Wall-mounted wine bottle display at a winery along the Lake Dunstan Trail in Central Otago

Two cyclists riding the Lake Dunstan Trail near Pisa Moorings, surrounded by spring lupins and calm lake

Cyclists cross the suspension boardwalk over Lake Dunstan in Central Otago

E-bike rider at the highest point of the Lake Dunstan Trail overlooking the lake.

Cyclist on a winding gravel section of the Lake Dunstan Trail surrounded by rocky terrain.

Two women celebrating at the end of the Lake Dunstan Trail near Clyde.

Cyclists crossing a suspension bridge high above Lake Dunstan on the trail from Cromwell to Clyde.

Cyclists riding on a scenic lakeside section of the Lake Dunstan Trail in Central Otago, New Zealand

Cyclists riding along a boardwalk built into the cliffs above turquoise waters on the Lake Dunstan Trail.

Wide view of Hugo Suspension Bridge across dramatic rocky terrain

Cantilevered boardwalk built into cliffside above Lake Dunstan

Clear water and mountain reflections on the Lake Dunstan shoreline

Suspension bridge with cyclists silhouetted high above a gorge

View of Clyde township and Clutha River from across the water

Mountain bikers cycling along a rugged high-country ridge near Cromwell

Group of cyclists taking in panoramic views above Lake Dunstan

Cyclists cross the swing bridge on the Lake Dunstan Trail in Central Otago

E-bike parked at the finish area of the Lake Dunstan Trail in Clyde.

Two smiling cyclists at the Clyde end of the Lake Dunstan Trail with river views.

From Cromwell to Clyde with Food, Wine and Views

Starting in Cromwell, riders can explore the heritage precinct before pedalling past Bannockburn’s vineyards and on toward the gorge. The Coffee Afloat barge café moored on Lake Dunstan offers a mid-ride pick-me-up that’s become something of a trail icon.

The ride finishes in Clyde, a charming historic town with boutique accommodation, wine tasting rooms, and links to the Otago Central Rail Trail. Whether you’re after a half-day adventure or a full day of riding and relaxing, the Dunstan Trail combines engineering brilliance with raw Otago beauty.

Top Things to Do on the Dunstan Cycle Trail

Riders of all experience levels will find plenty to enjoy on this impressive lakeside trail:

Cycle the full 55 km from Cromwell to Clyde
Cross suspension bridges and cantilevered boardwalks
Stop at Coffee Afloat for a mid-ride treat
Explore Cromwell Heritage Precinct pre-ride
Taste wine in Bannockburn’s cellar doors
Take in views of Lake Dunstan and the Kawarau Gorge
Discover gold mining relics along the way
Finish with lunch or wine tasting in Clyde
Link to the Otago Central Rail Trail for a longer ride
Book transport or bike hire in advance for a seamless day out

Itinerary with Trail Sections and Key Highlights:

Start: Cromwell Heritage Precinct
Highlights: Ride along Lake Dunstan, explore Bannockburn's vineyards, and enjoy lakeside picnicking.
End: Overnight stay in Bannockburn or return to Cromwell.

Smiths Way to Cromwell Heritage Precinct (16km, Grade 1):
Ideal for families and beginners, this section offers a leisurely ride along the lake's edge, with opportunities to explore the Cromwell Heritage Precinct, known for its boutique galleries and lakeside cafes.

Cromwell Heritage Precinct to Bannockburn Inlet (7km, Grade 2):
This stretch follows the Kawarau arm of Lake Dunstan, offering vistas of Bannockburn's renowned vineyards. The trail passes through areas reshaped by historic gold mining and the formation of the lake.

Start: Bannockburn Inlet
Highlights: Navigate the Cairnmuir Gully, experience the trail's engineering marvels, and take in the Cromwell Gorge's rugged beauty.
End: Arrive in Clyde, explore the historic precinct, and relax after the ride.

Bannockburn Inlet to Cairnmuir Gully (11.3km, Grade 2–3):
Cyclists traverse past vineyards and olive groves, encountering the first of the trail's bluff bridges and riding beneath the impressive Cairnmuir Slide, a significant geological feature.

Cairnmuir Gully to Clyde (approx. 20km, Grade 3):
This more challenging segment navigates through the Cromwell Gorge, featuring dramatic landscapes, engineered boardwalks, and the trail's iconic suspension bridges before concluding in the historic town of Clyde.

Cromwell and Clyde stand out as prime launch points for your Lake Dunstan cycling adventure. Nearby cycling havens include Alexandra, Wānaka, and Queenstown, offering diverse trails to explore.

Queenstown Airport is conveniently located, just a 45-minute drive to Cromwell and an hour to Clyde. The scenic highways crisscrossing this South Island region, like the Central Otago Touring Route and Southern Scenic Route, invite further exploration.

While the trail is generally smooth and wide, cyclists should navigate some narrow sections with steep drop-offs, demanding extra caution. Rated mostly grade 2 (easy), it features gentle hill climbs and a few tricky segments, elevating it to grade 3 (intermediate). Suited for riders of average fitness, be prepared for some steeper climbs that might require an extra push.

Central Otago welcomes cyclists year-round, unveiling a dynamic landscape transformation with each season. Late spring paints the hillsides in the vibrant purple hues of flowering wild thyme, while late summer and autumn showcase the celebrated green and gold colors against a brilliant blue sky. The region experiences an extreme climate akin to Continental Europe, with hot dry summers and freezing winters. Pack accordingly, considering sun protection in summer and layered warmth in winter, and always stay informed about potential high winds through weather alerts.