A Day On The Dunstan Trail

Epic Biking in Central Otago

Ride Information

Let us sort a Day on the Dunstan Trail for your group. This full day ride packages starts with a shuttle departing from our shop – 9 Duke St, Queenstown – at 8:30 am. We’ll drive you through to the Clyde end of the spectacular Lake Dunstan Trail. There’s the option to stop for coffee in historic Clyde, before we deliver you to the head of the trail.

We will get you set up with everything you’ll need, including the bikes/E-bikes, helmets, and a trail map. You’ll first ride passed the Clyde Dam, before embarking on an exceptionally well-built bike trail beside Lake Dunstan. The trail is a masterpiece of engineering, including a purpose-built suspension bridge and numerous “clip-on” cantilevered platforms, which really add to the riding experience.

There are two significant climbs on the trail, the first near Halfway Hut and the second at the Cairnmuir ladder, with the highest point being a little over 300 m above sea level. You’ll see classic Central Otago landscapes as you ride, and smell the wild thyme that grows in abundance in these parts.

The shuttle driver will be waiting for you just passed Cornish Point (~ 25 km from Clyde). From there you can either make your way to the Bannockburn Pub or continue a bit further onto Old Cromwell (+ 13 km from Cornish Point) for a well earned ice-cream or bite to eat.

The return shuttles departs at 3:15 pm and aims to arrive back in Queenstown at 4:30 pm.

Distances

Clyde – Bannockburn: 31.5 km (approx. ride time for strong rider is 3 – 4 hrs)

Clyde – Cromwell: 38.5 km (approx. ride time for strong rider is 3.5 – 4 hrs)

Most of this trail is graded as either 2 or 3. You can expect some narrow sections, steep gradients, unfenced drop-offs and tight corners; this is really best for those with riding experience. Follow this link for a more in-depth description of the trail.

Riding from Arrowtown To Queenstown or Queenstown To Jack’s Point would be an ideal lead in to this ride, being of similar distance, but less difficulty.

Pricing

The prices below include bike or E-bike hire hire, return shuttle transport, and a driver to take care of logistics for you.

* Prices are per person

As this trail is not part of our regular schedule on the Queenstown Trail, and a longer drive from Queenstown, we require a minimum of 8 riders to make this ride go-ahead.

Electric Bikes Are Highly Recommended!

We are yet to hear anyone say “I wish I never upgraded to an electric bike”, but we have certainly heard the opposite! Guarantee the good times, keep your group together and have a fun day out there. E-bikes are a game changer and make this ride so much more fun!