Whether you are cycling as an individual, as a family or part of a large group, the Otago Central Rail Trail is an experience you will never forget. Take the opportunity to enjoy Central Otago’s celebrated culinary with local flavours and famous wines etc.
Restaurants, Cafes and Wine in Central Otago
Enhance your Trail experience. Central Otago has fantastic restaurants and cafes and is home to amazing wines and some excellent craft beer.
Transport and Other Services
Whether you need to book your travel to and from the Trail - or need help with transporting yourself and your luggage - there are a variety of services here to help.
Winter Riding
Otago is renowned for its distinct seasonal differences. If you have ridden our trail before then try something new.
A WINTER EXPERIENCE
An Interplanetary Ride
Explore a one hundred million to one accurate scale model of our Solar System. Explore the vastness of our Solar System as you journey through time and space!
Rail Tales
More than just a bike ride! The 152km outdoor classroom Has so many learning opportunities.
Need to Know
Before you leap onto your bike or take that first step along the Trail - Check out what you NEED TO KNOW!
Restaurants, Cafes and Wine in Central Otago
Enhance your Trail experience. Central Otago has fantastic restaurants and cafes and is home to amazing wines and some excellent craft beer.
Transport and Other Services
Whether you need to book your travel to and from the Trail - or need help with transporting yourself and your luggage - there are a variety of services here to help.
Winter Riding
Otago is renowned for its distinct seasonal differences. If you have ridden our trail before then try something new.
A WINTER EXPERIENCE
An Interplanetary Ride
Explore a one hundred million to one accurate scale model of our Solar System. Explore the vastness of our Solar System as you journey through time and space!
Rail Tales
More than just a bike ride! The 152km outdoor classroom Has so many learning opportunities.
Need to Know
Before you leap onto your bike or take that first step along the Trail - Check out what you NEED TO KNOW!
What extra gear will I need to take with me?
Bring sunscreen, first aid kit, bike repair kit and clothes for all seasons. You may also like to bring a torch for the tunnels along the way.
Is freedom camping allowed along the Trail?
There is freedom camping between Tiroiti and Daisybank and a site near Waipiata as outlined on the RT brochure map. There is also various commercial campsites on route at Clyde, Alexandra, Omakau, Ranfurly and Middlemarch. Please note that the camping sites on the RT map cannot be accessed by a vehicle, they are designed for bikers or walkers that want to camp along the Trail.
Will I have mobile phone coverage?
For most of the Trail you will have coverage, but there are some areas where coverage will be weak or no coverage at all.
Is there an app that shows our progress along the Trail in real time?
The Great Rides App has the ability to track progress along the Trail in real time. You can download the app using a link at the bottom of our home page or by following the link www.greatridesapp.com
Is there water available along the Trail?
Take plenty of water with you, and purchase more along the way. Be sure to fill your water bottle at your place of accommodation before you start your trip each day. There are some towns along the way where water can be restricted in the summer months.
There is a tap at the Ranfurly and Oturehua Station sites. There is also a tap at Hyde close to the picnic table.