Short & Sweet:
One Day on the
Otago Central Rail Trail
For those who don't have time to do the whole 152km trip, there are heaps of half day and single day options on and around the Otago Central Rail Trail!
Alexandra to Clyde Loop
20 kilometre loop
Starting in Clyde or Alexandra, the 150th Anniversary River Track meanders with the Clutha River. Suitable for the whole family, this 12km easy grade trail is perfect for filling in a morning/day. Stop in Clyde or Alexandra for a coffee or a bite to eat and head back down the Otago Central Rail Trail back to Alexandra or Clyde for another 8km.
Omakau
to Oturehua
29.5 kilometres
Starting in Omakau, follow the trail through to Lauder. Cross the curved bridge high above the Manuherikia River, then through two tunnels and over the incredible Poolburn Viaduct, this section of the Otago Central Rail Trail is not to be missed. Continue down to Oturehua, stopping at Gilchrist General Store for a well-deserved ice-cream.
Ranfurly
to Hyde
32.5 kilometres
Starting in Ranfurly, bike 7.5km downhill and across the rural Maniototo Plains to the country town of Waipiata. From Waipiata, bike 10.5km to Kokonga where you head over the impressive Taieri River Rail Bridge - 97 metres long and six metres high. Kokonga to Hyde takes you over the 32 metre high Prices Creek Viaduct, and through the Prices Creek Tunnel.
Omakau to Alexandra
34 kilometres
Add on a short detour (5 km) to the historic township of Ophir, cross the historic stone bridge, loop back to the main highway and return to Omakau in order to rejoin the Otago Central Rail Trail near the Omakau Domain. Cross over Tiger Hill and earn a drink at the Chatto Creek Tavern, before following the Manuherikia river to Alexandra.