The Otago Central Rail Trail is New Zealand’s original ‘Great Ride’ cycle trail.

Winding for 152 kilometres from Clyde to Middlemarch through the stunning Central Otago landscape, the Central Rail Trail is graded as easiest, which means it’s achievable for anyone who can ride a bike. 

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The 152km trail leads you away from roads and is relatively flat being a former railway line. It’s a fun and safe way for discovering Central Otago by bike with your family. Image credit: James Jubb #otagocentralrailtrail #nzcycletrail #nzoriginalgreatride #nzmustdo #cyclecentralotago #centralotagonz

A post shared by Otagocentralrailtrail (@otagocentralrailtrail) on Aug 13, 2018 at 6:24pm PDT

Discover the freedom of big open spaces and wild, wide skies. Explore the relics and history of abandoned gold mining villages. Ride across viaducts, through tunnels and over bridges. 

Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the heartland hospitality at pubs and cafés, plus operators who can help with everything from luggage transport to bike hire.  

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The social trail that meanders through amazing Central Otago landscape & history #otagocentralrailtrail #theoriginalgreatride #centralotagonz #dunedinnz #nzcycletrail

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Whether you’re tackling the whole route over a few days or simply getting a taste of it on a day ride, if you want to immerse yourself in this lovely landscape, follow the rail trail. 

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