Roxburgh Gorge Trail
Don’t miss out on this “best kept secret” in Central Otago
We’ll help you experience a fabulous day by arranging
- Bike hire
- Jet Boat transfer
- Return transport from Roxburgh Hydro
Experience our Every day great value and benefit from 15+ years of experience. We take care of the logistics, you focus on the fun parts.
AS SEEN IN
What is the Roxburgh Gorge Cycle Trail?
The Roxburgh Gorge Trail is one of New Zealand’s most dramatic and visually striking cycling and walking trails. At just over 34 km long, it takes you through a remote and rugged part of Central Otago that few people get to experience – a place of towering schist walls, hidden gold-mining relics, and a jet boat transfer through the gorge that’s as much a part of the journey as the ride itself.
The trail links Alexandra to the Lake Roxburgh Hydro Village and forms a key part of a larger multi-day journey when combined with the Clutha Gold Trail. Most riders will start this trail from Clyde, a real hub for cycling in the region, and ride the River Track or Otago Central Rail Trail through to Alexandra. While shorter than some of the other trails, it delivers an intensity of scenery and isolation that leaves a lasting impression. In 2026, work will begin to complete the centre section of this trail
Maintained by a Trust that overseas a number of the more recent trails, it is supported by trail operators and travellers alike who donate to it using the trail tag system. The Roxburgh Gorge Trail is well signposted and responsibly managed to protect both its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
What makes this trail so special?
- Its landscapes. You ride through steep gorge walls, beside the Clutha Mata-Au River, and past ancient stone huts once used by Chinese miners. The sense of scale and remoteness is unmatched. Some visitors have referred to it as New Zealands Grand Canyon.
- The jet boat experience. A unique 13 km section of the trail is completed by boat, adding adventure and access to a gorge that has no road running through it. It’s not a detour it’s the heart of the ride and Clutha River Cruises provide an excellent service.
- Its connection to history. The area is full of gold rush stories, early settler struggles, and the hidden presence of Māori pathways long before that. Along the way, you’ll see the remains of old workings, huts, and long deserted settlements.
- The quiet. This trail doesn’t pass through bustling towns. It’s a chance to truly disconnect – to appreciate the silence, breathe in the clean air, and ride in the company of the river and the land.
- Its place in a bigger ride. The Roxburgh Gorge Trail is often combined with the Clutha Gold Trail, Otago Central Rail Trail and Lake Dunstan Trail to create an unforgettable multi-day experience from Clyde all the way to Lake Waihola if you continue onto the Clutha Gold Trail
It’s a trail that speaks less and shows more. A place to be present, to soak up Central Otago’s powerfully raw landscapes, and to ride a route that few others have.
Roxburgh Gorge Trail 101
Distance: 35 km
Time to ride: 1 day or combine with the Clutha Gold Trail
Trail grade: 2 -3 – easy to intermediate
Suitable for: Most riding abilities
Family friendly: Best suited to families with children tall enough to ride a 24″ kids bike.
Best time to ride: Spring, Summer, Autumn (September to May inclusive)
Best direction to ride: Most people ride from Clyde to Roxburgh Hydro, but you can ride in either direction and the view is different!
Pair this trail with: Clutha Gold Trail and Lake Dunstan Trail
A video to get you thinking about the possibilities
Maps and profiles
You don’t really need a map when you’re the on the trail. However when you’re planning the something special, it really helps to orientate your self.
The first half of the trail is really quite mellow. After you’re dropped at Shingle Creek by the jet boat, you ascend to a high point and then down again. The trail is quite serpent like providing some wondering views back on itself.
It’s this section you need some fitness or an E-Bike for.
Stages and Distances
| Stage | Distance |
|---|---|
| Clyde to AlexandraVia the 150th Anniversary River Track | 12 km |
| Alexandra to Doctors Point | 10 km |
| Doctors Point to Shingle CreekJet boat transfer (Clutha River Cruises) | 13 km |
| Shingle Creek to Roxburgh Hydro | 11 km |
| Total cycling (Clyde to Roxburgh Hydro) | 33 km |
Make it a two day adventure and Cycle from Cromwell to Lake Roxburgh or or Lake Roxburgh To Cromwell by including the Lake Dunstan Trail.
ANSWERS TO THOSE IMPORTANT QUESTIONS
FAQ's
Planning a journey on the Roxburgh Gorge Trail? Here are the questions we get asked most, covering distance, grades, starting points, bikes and what to expect on the day. If you don’t see what you’re looking for then give us a call.
How much is the Roxburgh Gorge Trail Jet Boat?
Pricing will vary by season. For the 2025-26 season the Jet Boat cost
- $140 / adult with a regular bike
- $155 / person with an E-Bike.
Clutha River Cruises provides the jet boat transfers and we can take care of those bookings for you.
How long is the Roxburgh Gorge Trail?
The Roxburgh Gorge Trail is currently 21km long.
This is because the 13 km centre section, commonly referred to as “the gap” is still be be finished.
When this is completed in late 2026 or early 2027 the trail will be 34 km from Alexandra to Roxburgh Hydro. For the moment, riders need to take a jet boat transfer between Doctors Point and Shingle Creek. Our popular Roxburgh Gorge day trip includes this along with return transport.
Most cyclists riding the trail start their Roxburgh Gorge adventure in Clyde as this is “hub” for cycle tourism in Central Otago.
When riding from Clyde, the current distance is approximately 33 km depending on whether you ride the Otago Central Rail Trail through to Alexandra, or the River Track.
When completed, the ride from Clyde to Roxburgh Hydro will be approximately 46 km.
What gear do I need for the Roxburgh Gorge Trail
You should come prepared even though you can complete the Roxburgh Gorge Trail in a day.
Water You must carry at least 1.5 to 2 litres of water, especially in summer. The Roxburgh Gorge can get very hot with sun reflecting off the rocks and water. Hydration is critical.
Snacks and Food You should pack snacks or a light lunch. Energy bars, fruit, or sandwiches provide fuel during your ride. While you might purchase food at Alexandra as you pass through, you should have your own food in case you are under time pressure and unable to stop.
Sun Protection The trail offers minimal shade. You must wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days, because UV levels can be strong. Sunglasses are essential to reduce glare off the lake.
Clothing Layers Weather can change quickly. Mornings and late afternoons might be cool. You should bring a compact windbreaker or light rain jacket for windchill or unexpected rain. In cooler months, bring an extra warm layer.
Basic Tools and Repair Equipment You should carry a spare tube, pump, chain breaker, missing link, and multitool. These tools can help you fix a puncture or make adjustments. The trail surface is mostly fine gravel, but punctures do happen occasionally from thorns or pinch flats. There is no bike shop in the remote sections.
If you hire a bike from us at SheBikesHeBikes, these tools come with your bike.
Cell Phone You should bring a fully charged phone. Cell phone reception may not be continuous in the gorge, but you will have reception at either end and possibly at high points. Your phone is useful for emergencies and for taking photos.
Money You should carry money in New Zealand currency or a payment card. Café’s in Alexandra accept cards, but you should carry some cash as backup.
Additional Items In summer, insect repellent might be useful near the water in calm weather. In winter, you should consider gloves and a beanie under your helmet for warmth. Mornings can be very frosty in winter.
Preparation Summary By packing these essentials, you will be prepared for a safe and enjoyable ride on the Roxburgh Gorge Trail. You can focus on the views without worrying about items you left behind.
What is the Roxburgh Trail Gap?
There is currently a “Gap” in the middle of the trail that is incomplete. To get across the gap you need to book a jet boat transfer. We’ll take care of that along with return transport for you as part of our Roxburgh Gorge Day Trip.
Currently you can cycle from Alexandra to Doctors Point before you need to get a jet boat transfer to Shingle Creek so you can then ride out to Roxburgh Hydro.
Work as begun on completing the trail with landowners approval secured and access tracks for the trail builders constructed. We hope to see the trail open by early 2027.
Do I need to book a Jet Boat to ride the Roxburgh Gorge Trail?
If you want to ride the Roxburgh Gorge trail from end to end (one direction) then you currently need to book a jet boat transfer. Clutha River Cruises provide this service and it’s often a highlight of the trip for riders. SheBikesHeBikes can take care of booking the boat, return transport and rental bike.
Some people, with their own bikes, will ride in and out from either end, making use of their car to transport their bikes via road between Alexandra and Roxburgh Hydro.
Work is in progress to complete the centre section of the Roxburgh Gorge Trail so you can ride it from end to end.
Do I need to book a Jet Boat to ride the Roxburgh Gorge Trail?
If you want to ride the Roxburgh Gorge trail from end to end (one direction) then you currently need to book a jet boat transfer. Clutha River Cruises provide this service and it’s often a highlight of the trip for riders. SheBikesHeBikes can take care of booking the boat, return transport and rental bike.
Some people, with their own bikes, will ride in and out from either end, making use of their car to transport their bikes via road between Alexandra and Roxburgh Hydro.
Work is in progress to complete the centre section of the Roxburgh Gorge Trail so you can ride it from end to end.
Why Choose Us?
FREE itinerary planning
Accommodation, bike hire, shuttles, and luggage transfers, we sort it all and fully itemise for cost so you know what you're purchasing
Local Knowledge, Real Insight
With 15+ years on the trail, we know the people, the places, the secrets, the weather and the shortcuts. You get more than a trip — you get the inside track.
Every day great value
The price you see is the price you'll pay if you booked it all yourself — often less. No booking fees. No padding. Just genuine value every day
Great bikes at the right price
From premium Sinch E-Bikes to MTB's and specialty options like the WeeHoo and GSD cargo bikes — our gear is modern, well-maintained, and trail-ready.
Friendly, Responsive Service
It’s not just logistics, it’s the way you we make people feel. Reviews consistently praise our team for being helpful, warm, and quick to respond.
On-Trail Support
Something go wrong? We're just a phone call away. Fast, friendly, and local support gives peace of mind, especially for first-timers.
Great Value Group Packages
We offer serious savings for families and small groups — with clear pricing, quality inclusions, and no confusing fine print.
More Than a Booking Agent
We are on the ground in Clyde, Omakau and Middlemarch. We live, work, and ride the trail and this makes all the difference when it comes to care, detail, and experience.
Trips - Tours - Packages
Gorge Yourself
Gorge Yourself | 1 Day
Distance: 36 km (riding)
Grade 2-3 (Easy to Intermediate)
Duration: 7 hours
Tour meeting point: Clyde
Suitable for: All cyclists - note trail is narrow in some parts
From: $260 NZD per adult
Day Trips
If you’ve only got a day to spare, the Roxburgh Gorge Trail is one of the most breathtaking and memorable rides you can do in Central Otago.
Whether you’re looking to disconnect in nature, soak up stunning schist landscapes, explore hidden gold-mining relics, or just enjoy a day of adventure with friends or family, this trail offers it all.
You’ll ride a beautifully built trail, experience the incomplete centre section of the trail by jet boat transfer, and enjoy the freedom of riding through a place that feels truly off the beaten path. It’s accessible, rewarding, and suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
From $60 / adult
Multi-day Tours / Packages
Follow the river, find the stories
A multi-day trip on the Roxburgh Gorge and Clutha Gold Trails gives you the perfect mix of adventure, history, and time to slow down.
Ride through a steep sided gorge, past gold mining relics, orchards, and wide-open farmland, all while following the mighty Clutha Mata-Au River. This is a journey that rewards those who take their time.
You’ll stay in tiny towns and experience Southern Hospitality as you make your way to Lawrence over 3 days or Lake Waihola over 5 days.
We’ll help you bring it all together, bikes, jet boat transfer, shuttle, accommodation and more, so you can simply enjoy the ride.
From $550 / adult
5 Days
Distance: 169 km
Grade 1-3 (Easiest to Intermediate)
Duration: 5 days
Tour meeting point: Clyde
Suitable for: All cyclists
Around: $967 NZD per adult
3 Days
Distance: 107 km
Grade 1-3 (Easiest to Intermediate)
Duration: 3 days
Tour meeting point: Clyde
Suitable for: All cyclists
Around: $630 NZD per adult
Time to book?
Pick an Adventure and we’ll put the details together for you in an obligation free sample itinerary
It really is that simple!
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Give us a call, or send us an email