Clutha Gold Trail 5 Mountain Bike Trail
Status
OPEN
Difficulty
Easy
Distance
42.7m
Elevation
388m
-504m
Description
https://www.cluthagold.co.nz/plan-your-trip/trail-mapshttps://centralotagonz.com/tracks-and-trails/clutha-gold-trail/Lawrence to Waitahuna - 14kmThe discovery of gold at Gabriel's Gully by Gabriel Read in May 1861 led to the Otago Goldrush and saw the town of Lawrence boom. A detour from the trail here of 4km (20mins cycle one way) to visit Gabriel’s Gully is highly recommended.Departing Lawrence, the trail climbs gently before the easy grade 2 trail brings you to the small settlement of Waitahuna, where you’ll find a coffee cart and refreshments (closed in winter - check opening times) at the historic Waitahuna Railway Station and goods shed.Waitahuna to Milton - 31kmThe trail between Waitahuna and Milton is gently undulating and partially follows the old railway line through rolling green countrywide and woodlands. There are two tunnels and a viaduct to explore along the way so remember a torch for the tunnels and ring your bell to let people in the dark know you’re approaching Mount Stuart Reserve, about halfway along this section, is an idyllic spot for a picnic with plenty of shade in the summer.There are no services between Milton and Waitahuna so remember to fuel up with coffee and snacks in either Milton or Waitahuna before you depart. Cell phone coverage is also limited in places.Caution: the trail crosses the main road (SH several times and there are some short sections where the trail shares public gravel roads, so be aware of traffic and normal road rules apply.
Weather
Details
E-bike access
Class 1
Dogs
Allowed
Physical rating
Easy
Grade
-0.3% avg, -97.5% max
Region
BalcluthaLast updated
26 Mar 2026
Links
No links, yet!
Frequently asked questions
Explore this trail
View Clutha Gold Trail 5 on the interactive map to see the full trail route and nearby trails.