Lake Roxburgh

Welcome to the Roxburgh Gorge, a striking testament to both the raw power of nature and the transformative ambition of mankind. Situated in the heart of Central Otago, this landscape is starkly different from the lush coastal…

Setting out from Alexandra, the trail closely hugs the banks of the Clutha, New Zealand's second longest river and its most voluminous. The sheer volume of water pushing through this narrow gorge is staggering. …

After ten kilometers of sweeping riverside riding, the track abruptly terminates at an area known as Doctor's Point. Here, the sheer cliffs finally plunge directly into the deep waters of the lake, leaving no room for a cycle…

While waiting at the water's edge, local guides often point out further ruins across the gorge. Amidst the scrub and rock, the crumbling foundations of a two-story stone building can be seen. …

Because the middle section of the gorge is impassable by land, cyclists must bridge the 13-kilometer gap via a jet boat transfer. The arrival of the boat shatters the historic silence, its powerful V8 engine echoing violently off…

Disembarking at Shingle Creek, the second leg of the cycle trail begins. This 11-kilometer section leading to the dam is more challenging, featuring grade 3 intermediate terrain. …

The arduous ride culminates with the sudden, imposing sight of the Roxburgh Dam. Completed in 1956, this massive concrete gravity dam was the earliest large-scale hydroelectric project on the Clutha River. …

Crossing the dam marks the official end of the Roxburgh Gorge Trail, but the journey through history continues as it seamlessly connects to the Clutha Gold Trail. Rolling down toward the township of Roxburgh, the harsh, rocky…