A 17km section of the Kawarau Gorge Trail will open to the public on Sunday 25 October 2026, giving riders the chance to experience part of this spectacular trail between Cromwell and the Kawarau Gorge.
The section runs from the Butcher Drive car park at Cromwell Heritage Precinct to Pioneer Bridge, just upstream of Goldfields Mining Centre.
Please note that the full Kawarau Gorge Trail is not yet open. The final bridge and remaining barriers are still being completed, and the unfinished section has not been signed off for public use. Riders must stop at the locked gate at Pioneer Bridge.
An announcement confirming the full trail opening date is expected soon, with at least two weeks’ notice provided before the first public ride on the completed trail.
Planning your ride
The newly opened section is a 17km ride each way, making it a 34km return trip from Cromwell. Before setting off, make sure you’re prepared for the distance and changing conditions.
A few things to keep in mind for a safe and enjoyable ride:
Stay within the open section: Do not go beyond the locked gate at Pioneer Bridge. The trail beyond remains under construction, with unfinished barriers, an incomplete bridge and other hazards.
Remember it’s a two-way trail: Expect to encounter riders travelling in both directions. Slow down, be courteous to others and remember this is not a racing track.
Take care on narrow sections: There are narrow sections, switchback corners and elevated areas to negotiate. Give other trail users plenty of space and dismount to walk your bike where needed. Please follow all signage and avoid overcrowding bridges.
Stay on the marked trail: Do not ride on private vineyard roads, walking tracks around Goldfields Mining Centre or within the Goldfields operational area.
Pack for the distance: Take sufficient food and water, a basic toolkit and spare parts. Check the weather forecast before leaving and bring suitable layers.
Plan your facilities: We recommend parking at the large car park on Butcher Drive at Cromwell Heritage Precinct, where public toilets are available. Please note there are no public toilets between Cromwell and the Highlands Gorge-ous Pit Stop toilet, approximately 15km further along the trail.
If you’re visiting Goldfields Mining Centre or Panners Bar & Kitchen, please dismount and walk your bike down the marked path, following the signage.
We know many of you are looking forward to riding the entire Kawarau Gorge Trail, and we’re getting closer to that milestone. For now, please enjoy the newly opened section, respect the areas that remain under construction and follow all trail signage.
We’ll share more information about the full opening date as soon as it’s confirmed.
Enjoy the ride, look out for one another and we’ll see you on the trail this Labour Weekend!
