From Wanaka – Bike the Dunstan Trail with shuttle return

Planning a day of cycling in New Zealand’s South Island? The Bike the Dunstan Trail, offered by nzbiketrails, is a highly-rated way to experience some of the region’s best scenery without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. With a convenient shuttle from Wanaka, well-maintained bikes, and a trail that showcases engineering marvels and beautiful vistas, this tour packs a lot into seven hours.

What we love about this experience is how it balances adventure with comfort. First, the supportive setup of e-bikes and expert guidance makes it accessible to a wide range of cyclists, from seasoned riders to those just looking for a fun, active day. Second, the stunning views along the purpose-built trail and the opportunity to enjoy some local wine at Clyde make it feel both special and relaxed.

One thing to consider is that you’re cycling on a Grade 1-3 trail with a few climbs, so some level of confidence on a bike is necessary—especially if you’re not used to riding or tackling inclines. Younger kids under 12 or those over 264 lbs are not suitable for this ride, so it’s best suited for older, confident cyclists. This trip suits active travelers wanting a scenic, well-organized day and who are comfortable on a bike.

Key Points

• Convenient shuttle service from Wanaka makes logistics easy.
• Stunning engineering marvels like the Hugo suspension bridge and mountain-side clip-ons.
• Flexible use of e-bikes helps groups stay together and tackle climbs comfortably.
• Well-organized tour with safety briefing and support from knowledgeable guides.
• Great value considering the scenery, support, and included transport.
• Ideal for active travelers over age 10 who are confident cyclists.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Dunstan Trail Bike Experience

If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines scenery, engineering, and some physical activity, this tour could be a great fit. It’s designed for folks who want a manageable ride but still appreciate a challenge, especially with the option of e-bikes to lessen the effort on the climbs. We appreciate how this ride is accessible yet still offers a sense of achievement—about 42 km of purpose-built trail that delivers some truly spectacular views.

Starting Out in Wanaka

The experience kicks off early, with a prompt 8:30 am shuttle pickup from Wanaka’s lakeside bus stop. The ride to Cromwell takes about an hour, giving you a chance to enjoy some local scenery and hear a bit of history from your guide. The gathering spot is straightforward—just arrive 10 minutes early to ensure you’re ready for departure.

The Shuttle and Orientation

Once in Cromwell, the team gets you geared up with safety briefings and bike setup. They’re clear about what to expect, and the bikes are top-notch—Sinch e-bikes and Specialized regular bikes that are well maintained. This means you’re riding reliable gear, which makes a big difference in comfort and safety. The guides are also praised for their knowledge, providing interesting tidbits about the area’s history and landscape along the way.

The Trail Itself: Engineering Meets Nature

The Dunstan Trail is a recent addition, opened in May 2021, and it’s one of New Zealand’s best one-day rides. The trail is purpose-built, with a good compact gravel surface that’s easy to ride on, even for those newer to cycling. There are just two modest climbs of 130 meters each, which are easily tackled with the aid of the e-bikes’ pedal assist options.

What makes this trail special are the engineered features—over 450 meters of ‘clip-ons’ on the mountain side and an 84-meter-long suspension bridge over the Hugo Dam. These features are not just engineering feats but also provide a sense of thrill and accomplishment. The views from these vantage points are impressive; you’ll get panoramic scenes of the surrounding mountains, the dam, and the valley below.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Ride and Stops

The route from Cromwell to Clyde covers about 42 km of carefully designed trail. Most riders report that the actual riding time is around 2.5 hours, but the entire experience, including stops, takes about five hours in total. During the ride, you’ll pass by local attractions like the Carrick Winery, where you can pause for refreshments and enjoy the scenery.

The trail’s grade makes it suitable for a variety of riders, with some moderate uphills that can be eased with the electric assist. Many reviews highlight how the assist levels—eco, normal, high—are helpful, especially on the climbs. Experienced riders often prefer normal, but the high setting can give you that extra boost if needed. The fact that the bikes can be ridden in ‘off’ mode also appeals to those who want to test their legs further.

Reaching Clyde and the Return

In Clyde, you’ll have some free time to explore a charming historic town, and many guests enjoy a quick celebratory drink before heading back. The shuttle departs around 3 pm, returning you comfortably to Wanaka by about 4:30 pm. The luxury vehicle used for transport means you can relax after your ride and reflect on the day’s highlights.

What Our Reviewers Say

Multiple travelers describe their experience as “well organized” and “worth the money,” praising the quality of bikes and the helpfulness of guides. One reviewer shared, “The help and advice from David, Ian, and Melissa was invaluable,” emphasizing how good support can make a difference. Others appreciated the stunning views and good value, with one describing it as “fabulous track and fabulous views” and calling it “one of the best things we did in the holiday.”

The trail’s appeal isn’t just the scenery but also the engineering marvels and the opportunity to indulge in some local wines—an appealing combination for those wanting a mix of activity and relaxation.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour is designed for confident cyclists aged 10 and up, with a minimum height of 140cm. Younger children or less confident riders might find it challenging due to the trail’s moderate climbs and slightly heavier e-bikes. The total distance is about 26 miles with approximately 2,400 feet of elevation gain, making the e-bike a real help for some.

The support during the ride is solid, with guides ready to assist if needed. The safety briefing and bike setup ensure everyone is comfortable before hitting the trail. The ride operates all year round, including winter, making it a versatile choice regardless of the season. Winter rides offer a unique view of snow-dusted mountains, and the trail remains accessible thanks to the gravel surface.

What to Bring

• Sunscreen and hat for sun protection
• Water bottles to stay hydrated
• Gloves for grip and comfort
• Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended)
• Fully charged smartphone for photos and emergencies

Tour Logistics

• Meeting point at Ardmore Street, Wanaka
• Shuttle departs promptly at 8:30 am
• Approximate 7-hour total experience
• Cost includes bikes, shuttle, and support, offering good value for the quality and scenery

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for riders aged 10 and over who are confident on a bike and taller than 140cm. Younger children or those less experienced might find the trail a bit challenging.

Are e-bikes necessary?
E-bikes are highly recommended because they make climbing easier and help groups stay together. They can be ridden in ‘off’ mode too, if you prefer to pedal without assistance.

How difficult is the trail?
The Dunstan Trail is graded as Grade 1-3, with two 130-meter climbs. It’s manageable for most riders with a good level of confidence, especially with the electric assist.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the shuttle from Wanaka, bike rental, safety briefing, and support. You’ll need to cover your own refreshments and any extra activities in Clyde.

Can I do this ride in winter?
Yes, the trail is open year-round, including winter, when the snow-dusted mountain views are stunning and the trail remains accessible thanks to its gravel surface.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, water, gloves, weather-appropriate clothing, and a charged phone. Good footwear and comfortable clothing are recommended.

How long does the ride take?
The actual riding time is about 2.5 hours, but the whole experience, including stops and support, lasts roughly 7 hours.

What if I need help during the ride?
Support is readily available from guides who are knowledgeable and friendly. They’ll assist with bike setup and help if you experience any issues.

Is there a maximum weight limit?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for people over 264 lbs (120 kg).

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot with flexible payment options, including booking now and paying later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour.

Final Thoughts

This ride offers a well-organized, scenic adventure that’s perfect for active travelers wanting to explore the South Island’s stunning landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail. The combination of purpose-built trails, engineering marvels, and support from friendly guides guarantees a memorable experience. Whether you’re keen on tasting local wines, enjoying panoramic views, or simply having a fun day outdoors, this tour hits just the right notes.

It’s especially suited for those comfortable on a bike who enjoy a mix of activity and relaxation, and who appreciate good organization and support along the way. Families with confident older children will find it a wonderful outing, while solo travelers or groups can enjoy the camaraderie and stunning scenery. Just prepare for some climbs, bring your enthusiasm, and get ready for a day that’s both invigorating and rewarding.

You can check availability for your dates here: