Otago Rail Trail | Poolburn Gorge | Day Trip | Clyde → Shuttle to Auripo → Cycle Back
Distance: 55 km
Grade 1 (Easiest)
Duration: 6 hours
Suitable for: All cyclists - note this is a longish ride
From: $99 NZD per adult
What, when, how etc
SUITABLE FOR
This tour is suitable for all cyclists. It is a longer ride and because of this, E-Bikes are recommended. We transport you and your bikes from Clyde to Auripo and you ride back to Clyde.
If riding downhill is your thing then riding our Otago Rail Trail day trip from Auripo to Clyde is for you. You’ll experience the scenic Poolburn Gorge with its two tunnels and the highest viaduct on the Rail Trail. As the most popular section of the trail, this is a great day if you’re looking for plenty of riding.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Start with a scenic shuttle through the picturesque Manuherikea and Ida Valleys to be dropped at Auripo
- Ride across the spectacular Poolburn Gorge, featuring two tunnels and the trail’s tallest viaduct
- Cross the only curved bridge on the trail near Lauder
- Divert to the historic town of Ophir with New Zealand’s oldest operating post office and the gorgeous Daniel O’Connell Suspension Bridge
- Roll through the classic Central Otago towns of Lauder, Ophir, Omakau, Alexandra and Clyde
- If time allows, tackle the (optional) River Track from Alexandra to Clyde instead of the trail trail, or stop for a wine tasting along the way
- This is an iconic one-day Rail Trail ride, available all year round
- Minimum of two to run this tour (or a solo rider can choose to pay the two-person rate)
ITINERARY
Otago Rail Trail day trip from Auripo to Clyde
- 9:00 am – Meet at our Clyde depot for a friendly welcome, trip briefing, and personalised bike fit.
- 9:30 am – Depart for Auripo with one of our knowledgeable drivers, who’s happy to share local stories and answer questions along the way
- 10:30 am – Arrive at the old Auripo Station site and begin your ride
- Capture the moments – take plenty of photos and make memories to treasure and reflect upon.
- Enjoy lunch in Omakau, Ophir, or Chatto Creek – each with its own charm and character, or have a picnic along the way
- 5:00 pm – Return your bikes to our Clyde depot by 5:00 pm at the latest.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Transport from Clyde to Auripo
- Mountain bike with helmet, pannier bag, cycle computer, bike light, puncture repair kit and pump. Consider booking an E-Bike for the additional fee as this is a fairly long ride
- Rail trail map
UPGRADES & OPTIONS
Upgrades
- Standard or premium E-Bikes. You will find this journey to be relatively long if you don’t do a lot of cycling.
Options
- At Omakau, divert and ride the Ophir loop with it’s historic buildings and gorgeous Daniel O’Connell bridge. Note that this adds 5 km to your day.
- When you reach Alexandra, you can continue on the Rail Trail to our Clyde depot. You’ll find Monte Christo Winery near the end of the trail (1km from Clyde) which can be a nice way to finish with a wine-tasting if you still have some time
- Alternatively, you can take the River Track to Clyde, riding upriver along a stunning forest floor trail beside the Mata-Au (Clutha) River. This scenic route is 12 km compared to 8 km on the Rail Trail and features an undulating path that twists and turns its way to Clyde. It’s a beautiful ride, but best enjoyed only if you still have plenty of energy left.
Click on the map to view the interactive version
Distance: 55 km
Grade 1 (Easiest)
Duration: 6 hours
Suitable for: All cyclists - note this is a longish ride
Start time: 9:00 am
From: $99 NZD per adult
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