Shared Trails: Dunstan Trail links Cromwell with

Dunstan Trail links Cromwell and Clyde

Above: The Clutha River, with the Heritage Precinct to the right. Below: Looking toward the trail at Cornish Point.

Dunstan Trail links Cromwell and Clyde

The Lake Dunstan Trail flaunts the best of Central Otago’s natural beauty and begins from the quaint township of Clyde (or Cromwell).

The trail seeps with history from the bygone gold rush days, and as you cycle or walk the easy 55km ride (Grade 1-2) alongside the beautiful teal waters of Lake Dunstan, the Kawarau River, and the Clutha River it will become clear to see why many early settlers chose to reside in this region.

The Lake Dunstan Trail is divided into four sections - each with its own spectacular and diverse scenery.

Lake Dunstan Trail

55km | Grade 2-3 | 1-2 Days

The Lake Dunstan Trail links the townships of Clyde and Cromwell.

The trail offers walkers and cyclists a challenging 55kmwalk or ride (Grade 2-3) through unique and fascinating landscapes so characteristic of Central Otago as it journeys along Lake Dunstan, the Kawarau River and the mighty Clutha River..

Walkers and cyclists experiencing the Lake Dunstan Trail will marvel at the man-made landscapes, the rich Maori and early pioneer history, and amble through the vineyards of Bannockburn.

The region’s rich modern, pioneering and Maori historical stories are integrated along the way, some of which are brought to life in the Clyde and Cromwell Historical Precinct.

The Lake Dunstan Trail extends and complements the well-established Great Rides in Central Otago and the Southern Lakes, and provides a key link with the Otago Central Rail Trail and the Roxburgh Gorge Trail, both of which are part of Nga Haerenga - New Zealand Cycle Trails.

Smiths Way to Cromwell Heritage Precinct

16km, Grade 1

This section of the Lake Dunstan Trail is a popular day ride or walk to / from Cromwell. It wends its way alongside Lake Dunstan from Smiths Way via Pisa Moorings to Cromwell.

There are many places to rest a while beside the lake, with swim-

Dunstan Trail links Cromwell and Clyde

ming, boating and other water sports all popular along most of its distance. At Cromwell Heritage Precinct be sure to park up and explore the boutique galleries, retail stores, restaurants and cafe’s.

Cromwell Heritage Precinct to Bannockburn Inlet

7km, Grade 2

Following the Kawarau arm of Lake Dunstan to the Bannockburn Bridge, you will have amazing vistas across the lake to Bannockburn vineyards and the next section of trail which loops back round on the opposite side. Along the way there are sections where the land has been reshaped in the search for gold and then again when the lake was formed.

After crossing the Bannockburn Bridge loop around to Bannockburn Inlet, there is a toilet, and parking available.

It is possible to return to Cromwell on a trail alongside Bannockburn Road - making for a wonderful short and family friendly day ride.

Bannockburn Inlet to Cairnmuir Gully

11.3km. Grade 2-3

The trail loops around the Bannockburn Inlet which is a popular picnic area with a designated swimming area. As it continues toward Cornish Point it passes by vineyards and olive groves - with views back across to Cromwell and the Heritage Precinct.

This section includes the first of the bluff bridges, and you will cycle at the base of the stonework faces of the Cairnmuir slide, a unique feature high on the slopes above the lake. It was designed to protect the river from a major land slide, which could overwhelm the Clyde Dam, a short distance downstream. As you go, look out for the drainage tunnels dotted along the length of the gorge. There are 13 tunnels (total 18.5km of tunnels) drilled into the hillsides of the gorge in the mid 1990’s. These

Above: Walkers coming up to the Cromwell Heritage Precinct.

tunnels are also used to mitigate against landslips into the Clutha River.

Cairnmuir Gully to Halfway Hut

8.4km, Grade 2 - 3

This section requires the most attention and skills as there are narrow sections and more gradient.

The aptly named Cairnmuir Ladder, may look daunting but the switchbacks have been designed to a maximum of 6 degree gradient with a 3m minimum radius. This section contains the highest point of the trail, rewarded with magnificent views which also means exposure to the weather.

The Hugo suspension bridge is in the middle of this section with a walkable steep land option for those uncomfortable on the bridge.

Toilets are at either end of this section at Cairnmuir Gully and Halfway Hut

Halfway Hut to Dunstan Arm Rowing Club

10.7km, Grade 2-3

Close to Halfway Hut you will find a short switch back section with tight corners and a good climb / descent. There are plenty of picnic spots to stop at ■ and enjoy the lakeside.

A dominant feature at the Clyde end of the trail is New Zealand’s third largest hydro-dam, the Clyde Dam. This was one of the ‘’Think Big” projects driven by the Muldoon led Government to diversify the economy and drive growth. Started construction 1977. The first power was generated in 1992.

Dunstan Arm Rowing Club to Clyde Heritage Precinct

3.5km. Grade 1 This section follows the sealed road in places, and shares the Clyde road bridge before climbing up towards the Clyde Heritage Precinct. where you can step back into New Zealand’s past.

Situated on the shores of Lake Dunstan, this unique heritage attraction is a mix of original and reconstructed buildings from the old main street of the 1860’s gold town of Cromwell.

Visitors can wander freely through the precinct any time of day.

The historic buildings are home to local artisans and cottage industries where you can find that special memento of your holiday. Wander through the old bakehouse or view the mud brick cottage, visit the art galleries or enjoy a cup of coffee at one the cafes, overlooking Lake Dunstan.

Above: The Cromwell Heritage Precinct.