Southern Lakes Trails has confirmed the Kawarau Gorge Trail will officially open in September 2026. This spectacular new backcountry trail will connect Gibbston Valley and Cromwell, featuring dramatic gorge landscapes, suspension bridges, rich local history, and a challenging adventure for confident riders and walkers.

Southern Lakes Trails and the Roxburgh Gorge Trails Trust are celebrating a major milestone following the Government’s recent announcement of support funding for the project to close the gap in the Roxburgh Gorge Trail.

Five years after opening on 8 May 2021, the Lake Dunstan Trail continues to exceed expectations, cementing itself as one of New Zealand’s iconic cycling and walking experiences. 

Imagine running a marathon amidst the breathtaking beauty of towering mountains and plunging cliffs. Picture yourself traversing a windswept high country farm and descending to a vineyard at lake level. This is the adventure that awaits runners at the very first Lake Dunstan Trail Marathon on September 1st.

On the first day of spring, the Lake Dunstan Trail came alive with the excitement of the very first Lake Dunstan Marathon. The event exceeded all expectations.

Building the Kawarau Trail around rock faces, upstream from the Goldfields Mining Centre

Roxburgh Gorge Trail - the final 13km to be constructed, linking Shingle Creek to Dr Point, and completing the 33km Great Ride

Six months after construction started on the Kawarau Gorge Trail, seven kilometres of trail has been formed, an incredible 26% of the 27 km project.

The epic Kawarau Trail journey has begun!

Since opening May 2021, the Lake Dunstan Trail has taken both locals and tourists by storm, with over 152,000 trailblazers enjoying the adventure. It's time to harness that enthusiasm and commitment.

The ambitious construction of the Kawarau Gorge Trail, linking Queenstown and Cromwell, has moved a step closer to realisation.