Roxburgh Gorge Trail Gap
[ OVERVIEW ]
True wilderness offering historic glimpses where goldminers truly etched a living for themselves.
Opened in 2013 with a 12 km gap in the middle between Doctor's Point and Shingle Creek, Southern Lakes Trails have facilitated in “bridging the gap”. Currently the gap is covered by Clutha River Cruises who offer an excellent transfer service and heritage talk. For an informative break from the saddle then get a ride with this company. Well worth it and a completely different viewpoint of the gorge.
Expected to open early 2027.
See the Roxburgh Gorge Trail website for full information on this trail:
Essential Insights
Cycling Trail Grade
2-3
12km section between Doctor’s Point and Shingle Creek
Trail Length
Trail Duration
2 - 4 hours (approx.)
Trail Difficulty
Easy and interesting
Take on the challenge that’s among the best
We are immensely proud that our work closing the gap helped the amazing Roxburgh Gorge Trail become the 21st "Great Rides of New Zealand".
[ TRAIL MAP ]
[ INFO ]
Important Information
The Roxburgh Gorge Trail will connect Alexandra to Roxburgh, closing a major gap and creating a continuous link from Queenstown to Dunedin. The trail is open year-round and is two-way, with a smooth, wide surface that suits most riders.
It is mainly grade 2 (easy), with some gentle hill climbs that push sections to grade 3 (intermediate). These climbs are manageable for averagely fit riders and can be walked if needed. Boat transport for part of the journey is still expected.
Most types of bike are suitable for this trail, whether it’s hybrid, mountain, gravel or an e-bike. E-bikes are available through most bike hire companies. E-bikers should ensure that batteries have sufficient capacity and charge for the day's riding and, if staying in local accommodation, check that they can be recharged there.
Please note that boat companies impose a surcharge to carry e-bikes onboard. Please note no dogs are permitted between Doctors Point and Roxburgh Dam, as this is operational farm land. Overall, the trail is suitable for riders of most ages and abilities and offers a relaxed, scenic ride with a few gentle climbs.
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 Doctors Point and Roxburgh Dam.
Be aware of and considerate to farm animals at all times.
Please leave farm gates as you find them.
Rubbish - take away with you.
Safety Messages
Ride/walk at your own risk. Keep clear of trail edges.
Use only during daylight hours.
Be aware of severe weather conditions: heat, high winds, rain and cold.
Take at least 2 litres of water, plenty of food and warm clothing with you.
This trail is all remote and has no access to the main road. There are some trails over DoC land and farmers property, however these are only used in emergency access situations. The lake is another way of extricating from the gorge – via jet boat.
Carry at least one form of communication in case of emergencies.
Cell phone coverage is limited (on some networks).
We support the carrying of Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs).
Call 111 in an emergency. Note your closest km marker.
Take care when swimming in Lake Roxburgh.
Always wear your bike helmet.
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: Geoff Marks
Photo Credit: Geoff Marks
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
[ JOURNEY ]
Discover the Roxburgh Gorge Gap Journey
Like all of our trails, the Roxburgh Gorge Gap 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 Marks
[ APPROVED PARTNERS ]
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 ]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.
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