Experience the spectacular
Lake Dunstan
Cycling and Walking Trail
Building the journey:
After years of planning, construction of the Lake Dunstan trail started in May 2019: the first project for the Trust. Constructing the trail was a spectacular journey in itself, necessitating high levels of engineering skill and ingenuity across tough, rugged terrain in the heart of Central Otago. Construction had to work hand in hand with both archaeologists preserving the history still found here, and environmental experts, preserving precious plants and wildlife.
Image credit: Geoff Ellis
Open for all:
In May 2021, only two years after the first spade hit the ground, this unique trail officially opened. The day was a celebration of the momentous effort that triumphed, despite Covid and the many challenges of such a massive project.
Trail enthusiasts and community supporters celebrated with the inaugural ride and run, MP Jacqui Dean cut the ribbon in front of the hundreds that had gathered, and the trail was officially opened.
Stretching 58 kilometres from Smiths Way, through Cromwell and on to the historic town of Clyde, this trail represents an investment of $7 million, part of an agreement between the NZ government, Central Lakes Trust and the Otago Community Council to fund trails in Central Otago. The Lake Dunstan Trail now stands as a key asset for our community, skilfully built and being maintained at a high standard for today and for the future.
Outstanding success:
The trail's success has far surpassed initial estimates.
In 2021, New Zealand was emerging from the impacts of Covid and the borders were still closed. However, that first summer the trail boomed with riders, runners and walkers all enjoying the unique journey and spectacular scenery.
And it just gets better. To date, the counters have logged more than 150,000 users out enjoying this amazing experience. The trail’s on-going success is testament to a dedicated team and the wider community who together brought it to life and now
care for it.
Nailed the trail?
Share your pics #lakedunstantrail #nailedthetrail
What to expect and how to prepare
Interesting information
Image credit: Geoff Marks
Look to the future:
The Lake Dunstan Trail is complete, it’s unique, and it’s enjoyed by more people than we ever expected. There’s a real community vibe, and that’s exactly what will secure the trail’s future.
We found funding to build it to a world class standard - now we need to keep it as magical, as pristine and as safe as it is now, for the future. The trail is not funded by rates or other government funding - it’s all up to us.
We have a way for all those who love, use and benefit from the trail to become an integral part of its future.
Just like any community, we’re building a network of diverse people and businesses, each contributing in different ways, but all with the same vision: to look after the trail. Join the Community
