Rail Trail in a Day e bike Adventure
Overview
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6 hours
Mobile ticket
This is the ultimate one-day Rail Trail adventure, perfect for couples, groups, first-time riders, and families with older kids. Whether you're short on time or just want the best in a single day, this ride delivers maximum scenery with minimum stress.
Our route from Auripo to Clyde is handpicked for its world-class highlights, dramatic tunnels, the majestic Poolburn Gorge, sweeping high country, and charming towns like Ophir, Lauder, Omakau, and Chatto Creek. It’s the most loved section of New Zealand’s Great Ride and you’ll see why.
What sets us apart is unmatched service and premium e-bikes, plus our legendary CCT trail support. We handle all the logistics - shuttles, bike setup, safety briefings, insider tips, so you can just ride and soak it in.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or just want a fun, scenic ride with a glass of wine at the end, we’ll get you there confidently and comfortably. This is bucket list biking — done your way.
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Rail Trail in a Day – Central Otago’s Greatest Ride, Done Right This is no ordinary ride — it’s your chance to experience the most iconic stretch of New Zealand’s original Great Ride in a single, unforgettable day. After transferring from the Central Cycle Trail Co base in the historic Clyde Village you start your adventure from remote Auripo Road, where the Central Otago high country opens before you. Ride through the legendary Poolburn Gorge, with its dramatic rock bluffs, historic rail tunnels, and sweeping viaducts. Soak in the charm of Lauder, admire the historic bridge at Ophir, and stop for a bite in Omakau. Pedal past vineyards, rivers, and rail relics as you glide toward the Chatto Creek Tavern, where a cold drink awaits, before cruising the final stretch into Alexandra and finishing in scenic Clyde. We’ve taken care of every detail — shuttle transport, premium e-bikes, maps, and support. This is the best way to tick the Rail Trail off your bucket list, no matter how much time you have.
What‘s Included
Central Cycle Trail Co App - iOS/Android
World Class e-Bike
A gel seat cover on your bike
Helmet
Transfer to Auripo Rd where your cycle begins
A pannier bag to carry your gear
e-Bike Insurance ($10 per day) T&Cs apply
Food and beverages from cafes along the trail
Options
Rail Trail in a Day e bike Adventure
Reviews
1 review
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Rail trial in a day... fantastic way to spend a day !
Wander10625365130,,Feb 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had the most wonderful time doing the "rail trail in a day"! The Central Cycle Co team were all super friendly, informative and efficient. We even got to ride a little extra at the end of the day, as we chose the rail trail to return to Clyde instead of the river loop and the friendly lady at the shop said, “Well if you are up to some more riding, why not go for just another 3 or 4 kms so that you can see the beauty of the river loop section”. We were so grateful for her generosity as the river truely is spectacular. The whole rail trial offers some spectacular views and ever changing landscapes. It was also super cool to have the opportunity to go through 2 historic tunnels as well as over many historic bridges. My partner is an engineer and he was like a kid in a candy store looking at all the old construction and marvelling at the historic engineering methods. I on the other hand, I was particularly fond of interacting with the friendly donkeys at Chatto Creek and both of us just repeated the phrase “wow, it’s just so beautiful” multiple times throughout the day. If you are comfortable on a bike and up to a 56-60km bike ride, we cannot recommend this ride highly enough. Even though the trail is long, all of the riding is super easy, as it is relatively flat with no steep climbs. It is an amazing way to take in the scenery while you just cruise along on your awesome e-bike. It was by far one of our favourite activities on our summer trip to the south island.
Related Experiences
Operated by Central Cycle Trail Co.