Wanaka Link Trail
[ OVERVIEW ]
Meandering with the Mighty Clutha Ma-Atau river from Wanaka through to Cromwell
This trail will cross some special and unique DoC reserves as well as crossing the Clutha Ma-Atau twice. 17km has already been built from Cromwell to Smith's Way and the rest will commence once the Kawarau Gorge is open.
Near to vineyards and crossing seasonal burns, streams and rivers, the trail links the heritage towns of Cromwell and Clyde. This will be constructed after the Kawarau Gorge Trail & Roxburgh Gorge Trail are completed, with landowner consents in place.
THIS TRAIL IS OPENING IN 2027 - COMING SOON!
Essential Insights
Trail Difficulty
Easy - Intermediate
Cycling Trail Grade
1 - 2
77km from Cromwell to Wanaka. the 17kms from Smiths Way to Cromwell is complete and open. The River Track from Albert Town to Luggate Boulders is also open, this is a DoC mountain biking track
Trail Length
Estimated to be 5 - 8 hours (approx.)
Trail Duration
Trail construction in progress - watch this space!
[ TRAIL MAP ]
[ INFO ]
Important Information
The Wanaka Link of the Lake Dunstan Trail will connect Wanaka communities to Cromwell and link into the wider trail network. Extensive negotiations have already taken place with landowners and the Department of Conservation along the proposed route.
Once the Kawarau Gorge Trail is completed and construction of the Roxburgh Gorge Gap is well underway, we will shift our focus to advancing this trail.
A key feature of the Wanaka Link will be crossing the Clutha / Matau twice. These crossings will require significant engineering and investment. If you are interested in sponsoring a large, iconic bridge, we would welcome a discussion.
Further details will be released once the detailed planning is complete.
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.
There are many access points that will enable riders to depart the trail.
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.
Swimming in the Clutha Ma Atua river is not recommended.
Always wear your bike helmet.
Be sure to check out the trail safety video before exploring any of our trails:
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: Tourism Central Otago
Photo Credit: Geoff Marks
Photo Credit: Geoff Marks
Photo Credit: Janeen Wood
“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 our Journey
Like all of our trails, the Wanaka Link 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 Marks
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.
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While challenging, some sections are suitable for intermediate cyclists with proper preparation and guidance.
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Bring water, repair kit, helmet, appropriate clothing, and a mountain or hybrid bike with good suspension.
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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.
[ 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.
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!