Clutha Gold Trail
Otago
- Grade: Easy
- Duration: 2 days
- Total Length: 73km
- Location: Otago
The two day Clutha Gold Trail, from Lake Roxburgh Dam to Lawrence, offers a unique heritage experience showcasing the area's history of early Māori moa hunters, Chinese gold miners, European pastoral farming, mining and rail. This wonderful trail follows the mighty Clutha Mata-Au River, as it weaves through trees, and traverses the beautiful Beaumont Gorge, before branching off into farming valleys and some sections of the historic Roxburgh Branch railway line including the 440m Big Hill Tunnel. Dotted along the trail are four small towns that were established during the gold rushes of a bygone era. Each has its own fascinating story and they are now welcoming places to stop for a meal or the night. The trail forms part of an extensive network of Great Rides in the Otago region, linking with the Roxburgh Gorge Trail at the Roxburgh Dam, on to the famous Otago Central Rail Trail at Alexandra. It is achievable for most fitness levels, and will appeal to families and groups.
The Clutha Gold Trail is located in the Central Otago region of New Zealand's South Island. The nearest airports are Dunedin International Airport and Queenstown International Airport, which offer flights to and from most major cities.
As you should with all cycle trails, take a bike repair kit with you, a torch just in case, some sunscreen and plenty of water and snacks. Mobile phone coverage is also patchy so keep this in mind and take a PLB with you if planning on cycling in small groups.
For more information, view the Clutha Gold Trail page provided by NZ Cycle Trail.
Otago
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All Otago accommodation can be booked online.
