Lake Dunstan Trail
Navigate the heart of Central Otago’s wilderness
Following Lake Dunstan, this trail has varied terrain. 17km from Smiths Way to Cromwell Heritage Precinct and the 13km around to Cornish Point are all easy riding around the lakes edge past homes, vineyards and orchards. The 25km from Cornish Point to Clyde Heritage Precinct cuts a bold line across the rugged landscape of the Cromwell Gorge, revealing hidden valleys and dramatic vistas. Each kilometre tells a story of the geology, and man's impact on the landscape, searching for gold, orcharding, farming, creating the dam and this wonderful lake.
Essential Insights
Trail Duration
4-6 hours (approx.)
42km - Cromwell to Clyde
Trail Length
Trail Difficulty
Challenging yet rewarding
Cycling Trail Grade
2-3
Total Climb
580m
Two-way/Dual direction trail - keep left
Direction
Take on the challenge that’s among the best
We are immensely proud that our stunning Lake Dunstan Trail became the 23rd "Great Rides of New Zealand".
Important Information
The Lake Dunstan Trail is open year-round. This trail is two way (dual direction). However, it is narrow (1.5m) in places, with a total climb of 580m over 42 kms. Please check weather forecast before using the trail. Parents / guardians please keep children close and ensure they have the skills and ability to complete the distance, particularly when entering intermediate sections – grade 2 – 3.
No motorised transport permitted. E-bikes to be <300w.
Ensure e-bikes are fully charged, as there are no chargers on trail.
Stay on the trail, keep left, look out for and be considerate to all other users.
Riders, ride within your ability, you may need to walk some sections.
Please respect and keep out of neighbouring properties, farms, vineyards and orchards.
NO DOGS are permitted between the Dunstan Arm Rowing Club and Cornish Point.
Be aware of and considerate to farm animals at all times.
Please leave farm gates as you find them.
Rubbish - take away with you.
REMEMBER TO ALWAYS CHECK OUT THE TRAIL SAFETY PAGE BEFORE EXPLORING ANY TRAILS, AS WELL AS CHECKING THE LATEST WEATHER UPDATES!
Your safety is our top priority, so please take a moment to familiarise yourself with the safety measures and protocols in place. By staying aware and following these guidelines, you help ensure a secure and comfortable experience for everyone.
The trails can be challenging at times, so you must be fully knowledgable and prepared for each trail. This means familiarising yourself with both the Trail Safety Information, and the individual trails themselves.
Photo Credit: Geoff Marks
Photo Credit: Tourism Central Otago
Photo Credit: Tim Dennis
Photo Credit: Geoff Marks
“I've ridden your magnificent trail many times. I don't take for granted the amount of mahi it takes to keep these taonga open, safe and accessible. Ngā mihi!”
— Tanya - Ōtorohanga, Waikato
Discover our Journey
Like all of our trails, the Lake Dunstan Trail was built from the ground up by incredibly hard-working and passionate people.
Click below to find out more about the trail’s history and what it took to become a reality for all.
Photo Credit: Geoff Ellis
FAQs
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The trail is moderate, suitable for experienced cyclists with a reasonable fitness level. Some technical sections require skill and concentration. A rewarding trail with a great sense of achievement on completion.
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It is not recommended for young inexperienced children. Children with good riding skills, closely supervised and competent will manage this trail.
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Bring water, snacks, toilet paper and a repair kit. Wear appropriate clothing for all weather. A mountain or hybrid bike with good suspension is recommended.
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Yes, several local operators offer guided tours with experienced cyclists who know the trail intimately.
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Late spring to early autumn offers the best cycling conditions with mild temperatures and clear views.
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E-bikes are fine to use - but be familiar with them, as they are heavier than other bikes.
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Yes, the Lake Dunstan Trail is open all year round, however wind direction and weather conditions can make the ride significantly more challenging at other times of the year.
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No, the trail can be started from either end, and is in fact a two-way trail. So all riders should keep left and expect people coming around the corners. It is not a race track.
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Dogs are allowed on a lead around the urban areas of the trail - Smiths Way to Cornish Point - some 32kms. DOGS ARE NOT ALLOWED from Cornish Point to Clyde Rowing Club - this is farm land. For farm biosecurity and stock control, NO DOGS
Approved Partners supporting our Trail network
Our trusted partners are scattered across our full network, and each can help you get the most of your trail. Click on any of the tiles below to be taken directly to their respective websites.
Get Involved!
We’re all about making the most out of our landscapes, and encouraging people to go get amongst it! We’re proud of the work we do in bringing first-class journeys to the masses, and are always thriving to make our experiences better and better!
All About Us
We’re very much people-pleasers, always thriving to make our trails and experiences as great as we possibly can… Want to learn more about us? There’s lot to learn!
Join Track Pack!
Keen to become a part of the journey? You should join the Track Pack membership, so you’ll receive updates and a voice in all the projects we are currently working towards.
Our Approved Partners
We couldn’t do the work we do without our trusted Partners and Approved Operators. They play a key role in everything we do and hugely support us in bringing our trails to life.
News & Updates
There’s always plenty going on behind the scenes here at Southern Lakes Trails. Click below to check out our blog, where we document some of our latest updates and developments.
Donations welcome!
Want to donate to our wonderful cause? Click the button below to make a donation of your choice - no matter how small it might be, every donation is greatly appreciated, thanks so much!