3 Days | Clyde to Middlemarch

Otago Rail Trail 3 day itinerary

Day One – Clyde to Lauder (42 km)

You start with two options for riding to Alexandra, either the  River Track (12 km) or the Rail Trail (8 km). Both are great, but take the Rail Trail if you don’t ride often or need a flat, wide trail. Stop for morning tea in Alexandra then ride through to Galloway (don’t miss the historic Ladies Waiting Room), then Chatto Creek for lunch at the most amazing Tavern. Ride up Tiger Hill – don’t worry as it’s not too long and the gradient is only 3% at maximum.

If you still have energy or “gas in the tank”, divert to Ophir to see New Zealand’s oldest working Post Office and cross the Daniel O’Connell suspension bridge. Pick up a coffee and gather snack supplies for tomorrow at the Omakau general store.

Ride your last leg to Lauder for the the night. Settle in, refuel with a good meal, and laugh about the highlights from Day One.

Day Two – Lauder to Waipiata  (57 km)

It is another big day today but you get some relief once you reach the high point at Wedderburn and start trending down. Head out of Lauder, cross the trail’s longest bridge and head into the stunning Poolburn Gorge, with its tunnels and viaduct. Ride through the quiet beauty of the Ida Valley, then stop at Hayes Engineering Works and Gilchrist’s Store in Oturehua. You might have an early lunch here or have planned that for when you arrive in Wedderburn or Ranfurly.

Continue towards Wedderburn with a visit to the Golden Progress Mine along the way and take that magic photo at the high point sign on the trail just before Wedderburn. Refreshments and food are available at the Wedderburn Tavern, a real locals favourite. If you have time, watch the super informative video about the trails conception at the Wedderburn Red Shed. You can’t miss taking a photo at the Green Goods Shed (made famous by artist Grahame Sydney), as you pedal on towards Ranfurly, with another photo stop at the cute Wedderburn Station.

Roll down through Ranfurly, known for its Art Deco architecture and railway display at the old station. Buy some snack and lunch supplies for tomorrow unless you’re planning a late lunch in Middlemarch.

Ride the last leg into Waipiata, where you will stay the night.  You’ll be greeted by the quirky Waipiata Man. Fuel up and get some rest, you really deserve that entree and dessert tonight.

Day Three – Waipiata to Middlemarch (53 km)

It is your last day today! Reflect on your journey as you pass the remains of Lake Taieri, the scenic stretch that is Daisybank, the Prices Creek Tunnel and viaduct, and pay your repects at the Hyde Rail Disaster Memorial.
From Hyde the Rock and Pillar Range will feel like it’s accompanying you, as you head to your final stop at Middlemarch Station.

Check in with the friendly staff at the Shebikeshebikes depot, grab some lunch, and enjoy a celebratory drink before your onward transport. You did it – and hopefully took some amazing photos along the way. It’s hard not to in Central Otago. Riding the length of the Rail Trail from Clyde to Middlemarch in 3 days is no mean feat.  Totally worth a happy dance (and a nice shower).