Roxburgh Gorge and Clutha Gold Trails
The Roxburgh Gorge and Clutha Gold Trails are both parts of the New Zealand Cycle Trails. They were both opened on the 24th October 2013, and are suitable for most fitness levels. The trails link with the Otago Rail Trail at Alexandra; allowing a longer trip if required.
Roxburgh Gorge Trail
This 34km full day cycle trail follows the Roxburgh Gorge from Alexandra to the Roxburgh Dam. The trail through Roxburgh Gorge was originally opened by Chinese miners through spectacular terrain, with cliffs rising abruptly from the Clutha Mata-au River. Visit the old mining settlements, see preserved mining relics and explore the mining huts built into the rock face.
The middle section of the trail is currently only accessible by the river, so cyclists and bikes are taken on a 12km boat cruise over this section. The Roxburgh Gorge Trail links with the Clutha Gold Trail at Roxburgh Dam.
Clutha Gold Trail
From Roxburgh Dam the Clutha Gold Trail is a 2 day cycle trail continues down the Clutha Mata-au River and travels through historic gold mining settlements, across farming country and through the magnificent Beaumont Gorge. The route goes through the Big Hill Tunnel (440m) on the historic Roxburgh Rail Line and 4 small settlements founded in the Gold Rush, where you can stop for a meal or a night’s rest. Learn about the Maori history of the early Moa hunters, who lived in the area.
