Kawarau Gorge Trail
Under Construction - Due to Open September 2026
The Kawarau Gorge Trail is a new 34km purpose-built walking and cycling track which will connect the Lake Dunstan Trail in Bannockburn, Central Otago to the Queenstown Trails in Gibbston. Once finished, this trail will complete an interconnected network over over 530kms of cycle trails across the entire Otago region.
The new trail includes two swing bridges which will cross the swift flowing waters of the Kawarau River as well as a series of cantilevered 'bluff bridges' around sheer cliff faces. With world-class wine regions at either end of the trail, cyclists will have ample opportunity for refreshments at the end of their ride at numerous wineries, cafes and restaurants.
FAQs - Kawarau Gorge Trail
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When will the Kawarau Gorge Trail open?
The trail is due to open to the public on 19th September 2026. Until then the trail remains closed to the public. Do not attempt to access the trail as it is currently a construction site and there are significant risks and hazards.
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Where does the Kawarau Gorge Trail start and finish?
The 34km long trail connects Central Otago’s cycle trails to the Queenstown Trails network. At the Central Otago end, the trail starts from the car park on Butcher Drive near Cromwell Heritage Precinct, and at the Queenstown end from Oxbow Adventure Co. in Gibbston on SH6. (Note: there is strictly no parking on the state highway).
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How long is the Kawarau Gorge Trail?
The Kawarau Gorge Trail is 34km between Cromwell and Oxbow Adventure Co in Gibbston and includes 800m of climbing.
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Is the trail suitable for beginners?
No. This is a challenging grade 2-3 trail with over 800m vertical climbing. The middle 13km section of this trail is in a remote backcountry environment with no alternative exit routes. Users need to be confident, self-sufficient and capable of looking after themselves.
If you have ridden the Lake Dunstan Trail and found it challenging, then the Kawarau Gorge Trail is probably not for you. Easier local trails include the Otago Central Rail Trail or the Gibbston River Trail or Arrow River Bridges Trail at the Queenstown end.
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Are bike hire and transport options available?
Yes. Once the Kawarau Gorge Trail is officially opened in September 2026 there will be numerous bike tour companies based in Cromwell, Queenstown and Wanaka offering bike hire and transport packages for the trail.
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Is the trail suitable for E-Bikes?
Yes, but no other form of motorised transport is permitted. E-Bike motors must be <300w and E-Bikes must be pedal assisted. Ensure E-Bike batteries are fully charged, as there are no charging points on trail.
Find out more about E-Bike rules here. -
What about trail etiquette?
This is a shared use walking and cycling trail. It is 2-way / dual directional so expect to encounter other walkers or cyclists coming towards you. Stay on the trail, keep left, look out for and be considerate to all other users.
Cyclists, ride within your ability, slow down and note that you may need to walk some sections.
Take all rubbish with you. Note the locations of the toilets before your ride and leave no human waste on the trail. -
Are dogs permitted on the trail?
NO DOGS are permitted between the Citroen Bridge and Felton Road.
Map of the Kawarau Gorge Trail which is currently under construction and due to open in September 2026.
