Central Otago boasts a diversity of cycling trails and adventures that beckon the cyclist to experience the freedom and the joy of getting off the beaten track throughout the stunning landscapes of the region.



From peddling around the towns and along bike paths adjacent to waterways, to easier and challenging downhill trails, as well as some of the `bigger’ high-country alpine downhill rides in the country beckon.

Central Otago Cycling Trails

The thrills of fast, downhill free mountain biking are unrivalled in Central Otago’s open, sparse landscape. Go wild in this unique and unpopulated playground, where the tracks of old miners, and the horse and cart, as well as old coach roads and `pure downhill’ long runs from high mountain tops, offer it all.

And of course you can’t forget the gentle gradient of the Otago Central Rail Trail! Discover its treasures on any of its short sections, or pace yourself over the full 150km and see it all.

Now a recognised place to experience pure downhill adrenalin without the distraction of walking groups or four-wheel drivers, Central Otago’s mountain bike trails are favourites for national and international riders. Visitors are `wowed’ by the empty landscape and lack of traffic.

Experience a Central Otago Cycle Tour

Local companies offer an unforgettable experience each year on guided mountain bike tours. Their knowledge of local off-road routes, four-wheel drive tracks, single trails, technical cross-country rides, and fast downhill free rides in mountain ranges is unsurpassed.

Welcome to Central Otago; an exhilarating place where adventure truly meets nature... 
 
 
 
 

All routes described in this section are labelled with a symbol to describe the expected conditions:    Is a route suitable for all ages and reasonable fitness levels, generally easy track.    Is for an intermediate level rider, some steeper sections with ruts and bumps expected.    Designed for the expert, fit rider, expecting technical areas and extreme terrain. All routes should be checked for current conditions and weather expectations before starting out. Some of these routes will be impassable in winter months.

Alexandra/Clyde Nestled in the expansive Manuherikia Valley surrounded by majestic block-mountains is the commercial hub of Alexandra. Experience the drama of its contrasting seasons – blossoms in spring, the fragrance of wild thyme in summer, the golden glows of autumn and the mystical beauty of winter.   Read More	Cromwell/Bannockburn Surrounded by treeless mountain ranges and the powerful Clutha and Kawarau Rivers that converge to form Lake Dunstan, is Cromwell; the place to experience its abundance of sun-ripened fruits, award winning wines and rich mining past.   Read More	Ranfurly/Naseby This land of vast open space with tor-studded mountain ranges is timeless. Discover remnants of its gold mining past, the heartland of the high country drover, empty roads and sleepy little townships, and Ranfurly – New Zealand’s rural art deco oasis.   Read More

Roxburgh Set in the Teviot Valley amongst farmland and a patchwork of orchards, roadside stalls laden with the best of summer fruits is Roxburgh – home to the ‘world famous’ Jimmy’s Pies, stunning vistas and the mighty Clutha River at its best.   Read More