Ride one of Central Otago’s most spectacular cycle trails
Looking for an unforgettable day trip from Wānaka? Join Discover Wanaka for a full-day eBike adventure on the Lake Dunstan Trail, one of New Zealand’s Great Rides and one of the most spectacular cycling experiences in Central Otago.
We’ll take care of the transport, full-suspension eBikes and trail logistics, leaving you free to enjoy the ride.
From the blue/green waters of Lake Dunstan to the impressive engineering of the trail itself, this is a ride packed with incredible scenery, fun riding and plenty of opportunities to stop and take it all in.
The popular Cromwell to Clyde section of the Lake Dunstan Trail is around 42km and takes you through the Cromwell Gorge, alongside Lake Dunstan and through the heart of Central Otago wine country in the desert of Bannockburn.
With our full-suspension eBikes doing much of the hard work, you can spend less time worrying about the hills, (or how unfit you are!) and more time enjoying the experience.
DURATION:
8 hours
Start Time: 8.30am
CHALLENGE LEVEL:
This self-guided tour is only suitable for ages 16 and above and for those who are confident, experienced riders with a reasonable level of fitness.
Why Our Guests Love This Tour
- Experience one of New Zealand’s official Great Rides
- Ride alongside the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Dunstan
- Take in spectacular views of the surrounding mountains
- Experience the famous trail engineering, including the spectacular sections built into the cliffs
- Cross the impressive Hugo suspension bridge
- Tackle the trail’s climbs with the help of a full-suspension eBike
- Stop for a well-earned break at Carrick Vineyard, for coffee, beer/wine and pizza
- Explore the historic town of Clyde at the end of your ride
- Enjoy a hassle-free day trip from Wanaka with transport and bikes organised for you
- Ride with a local team who know the trails and the region
What’s included?
- Premium full-suspension electric mountain bikes
- Helmets and gloves
- Pump, tools and spare tube
- Transport from Wānaka to Cromwell, then returning from Clyde to Wanaka
- Bike fitting and trail briefing
- Local knowledge and advice
- Trail logistics and return transport
- Friendly, experienced local service
You simply turn up, jump on your eBike and enjoy the ride.
Your Lake Dunstan eBike adventure
Your day starts in Wanaka, where we’ll collect you and your group before heading down the Upper Clutha Valley towards Cromwell.
Once we reach the trail, we’ll get you set up on your full-suspension electric mountain bike, make sure you’re comfortable with the bike and give you everything you need to enjoy the ride.
The Lake Dunstan Trail is generally smooth and well maintained, but it isn’t simply a flat lakeside cycle path. There are some challenging climbs, descents, switchbacks and sections with steep drop-offs, so a reasonable level of fitness and confidence on a bike is important.
That’s where an eBike really comes into its own.
You’ll still get to enjoy the fun of cycling, but the electric assistance takes the sting out of the bigger climbs and helps you save your energy for enjoying the scenery.
Cromwell to Clyde – the way to ride
The Lake Dunstan Trail is a two-way trail, but Cromwell to Clyde is the most popular direction and is often the preferred option depending on the conditions and wind.
Along the way you’ll experience a constantly changing landscape – from the shores of Lake Dunstan to rugged mountain country and the spectacular Cromwell Gorge.
One of the highlights is the incredible trail engineering. Sections of the trail have been constructed along the cliffs above the lake, creating some unforgettable riding and spectacular viewpoints.
There are also two significant climbs on the route, reaching around 130–150 metres, followed by some fantastic descents.
Take your time. Stop for photos. Enjoy the views. This is a day out, not a race.
Lake Dunstan Trail from Wānaka – at a glance
Duration: Full day
Distance: Approximately 42km
Trail grade: Grade 1–3
Fitness level: Intermediate
Bike: Premium full-suspension eBike
Starting point: Wānaka
Trail: Cromwell to Clyde, Lake Dunstan Trail
Suitable for: Confident riders with previous cycling experience
Best for: Couples, friends, families with older children and small groups
What to bring
Bring comfortable activewear and sturdy closed-toe footwear. We also recommend:
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Warm layer or windbreaker
- Small day bag
- Phone or camera
- Snacks or money/card for cafés or food stops
Central Otago weather can change quickly, so it’s always worth bringing an extra layer and raincoat.
Please note:
We require a minimum of 4 people in order to run this tour.
If you have less than 4, please email/call us to discuss.
Email: info@discoverwanaka.com
Phone: +64 (0)21 919468
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pedal this eBike?
Yes, our bikes are pedal-assist, which means you go have to pedal (a little) to get the electric motor to assist you
Is the Lake Dunstan Trail suitable for me?
The Lake Dunstan Trail is graded Grade 1–3, with most of the trail being smooth, compacted gravel.
However, there are some sections that require more care, including climbs, switchbacks, narrow sections, blind corners and areas with significant drop-offs.
For this reason, we recommend the Lake Dunstan Trail for confident riders with a reasonable level of fitness and some previous cycling experience.
If you’re comfortable riding a bike on gravel and happy riding hills and descents, an eBike makes the experience considerably more enjoyable.
If you’re looking for an easier, more relaxed introduction to cycling around Wānaka, our Lake Hāwea & River Trail eBike Tour or Easy Bike Tour may be a better choice.
Why ride the Lake Dunstan Trail with Discover Wanaka?
There are plenty of ways to ride the Lake Dunstan Trail. We think the best way is to let us take care of the logistics while you concentrate on having a great day.
As a locally owned and operated Wanaka business, we know the region, the trails and the little details that can make the difference between simply riding a trail and having a fantastic day out.
