Best Mountain Bike Trails in The Inlet
The Inlet refers to emerging mountain bike trails at Bannockburn Inlet in Central Otago, featuring two developing tracks: About Thyme (a 650m+ climb to a historic water race) and Pretty Dicey (a technical 1km downhill descent). Developed by the Cromwell Mountain Biking Club through community volunteer efforts, these backcountry trails offer a mix of climbing challenges and technical riding with views over the Bannockburn inlet area.
Trails
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 trails
Intermediate
659m
62m
-12m
About Thyme is a 700 metre Intermediate two-way trail. It initially follows alongside the Bannockburn Stream and then climbs reasonably steeply with about 13 tight and technical switchbacks. Dry and dusty trail conditions can make traction difficult. Side slope exposure adds challenge. The trail provides access to Pretty Dicey and the rear basin area.This was the first trail built in this location by volunteers from the Cromwell MTB club.The Club has been granted access by a generous private landowner. Please respect owners' generosity and requests.
Easy
167m
-18m
Mini flow is a short but fun trail at the rear of The Inlet Riding area. It is approx 1.6 km from the parking area and is accessed by About Thyme and WaterRace. This trail has a series large flowing berms, a couple of step downs, roller and a shark fin to finish. A zigzag track returns to the top
Very difficult
587m
17m
-70m
Pretty Dicey is a 600 meter downhill-only trail. From the top there are great views over the Bannockburn Inlet towards Cromwell. This is a steep downhill with tight berms and drops. The narrow trail is loose and gravelly and is skinny with significant side exposure. Rock drops and a small wall ride add to the challenges. A fun little trail that can be ridden by a wide range of riders.
Intermediate
2.6 km
52m
-62m
Connector track from top of About Thyme to back basin. Mainly flat gradient that follows Historic Water Race. Steep exposure in some sections along old water race.