Is there a right time to go?
Based on my experience, November was fine every day, very cold mornings and evenings. Highlights included seeing thyme in flower and new-born lambs,
In January I experienced changeable weather, windy, hot days, some very cold days and lots of people on the trail
During March I found the weather to be changeable with showers. It was busy on the rail trail. Be prepared for all types of weather from sunny hot days to cold, wet and windy.
Tips:
- Best to pre-book accommodation
Shall I go on my own or with a tour group?
I have cycled twice with another family member (independently and pre-booked our accommodation).
Once, I joined a tour group – Adventure South – 10 people and a tour leader/driver. Adventure South usually has two people escorting a group of more than 10 people.
The advantage of a tour group is that you are taken care of and don’t need to worry about taking luggage on your bikes via panniers and/or backpacks. A small pannier at the front and rear of the cycle is supplied and are big enough to carry a drink, jacket and snacks.
If you choose not to cycle, for whatever reason, then you can have a ride in the coach.
Do I need to be fit?
To enjoy the Otago rail trail you need to be reasonably fit.
While there are only two major inclines (cycling from Clyde to Middlemarch) – Tiger Hill and Weddeburn, if you get a strong nor-westerly wind, it can be challenging. Remember, the trail is only as steep as a train could manage.
Are there shops enroute?
There are shops when you cycle through Clyde, Alexandra (need to divert off rail trail some 10 mins), Chatto Creek Pub (food and drinks), Omakau, Oturehua, Ranfurly, Hyde hotel (food and drinks), Middlemarch (food and drinks).
Tip:
- Ensure you have plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, small first aid kit and tyre puncture kit
How much time do I need to cycle the Otago Rail Trail?
I spent 3 nights/4 days on the Otago Rail trail, however, you can take as much time as you like (subject to accommodation being available).
Are there toilets on the trail?
Yes, there are some toilets along the trail
Tip:
- Bring your own toilet paper
What type of accommodation is available?
You can camp if you want to carry all your own gear. Check out camping grounds via Google, or ask at I-Site for further information.
There are backpackers shared accommodation through to historic pubs, bed and breakfast and exclusive Lodges.
Tip:
- I enjoyed staying at historic pubs such as Dunstan House heritage hotel in Clyde and Hyde hotel
How fast can I cycle?
Allow 10km per hour. The track surface is loose gravel, so you need to pay attention to where you are cycling.
Tips:
- Be careful when crossing roads to get from one side of the rail trail to the other
- Bring plenty of memory sticks for your camera and a torch for the tunnels (they are not lit up)
- To turn a good trip into a great trip, try side trips to places like Ophir, Hayes Engineering at Oturehua, St Bathans, McRaes gold mine and Naseby. Check with hosts at accommodation to see if this can be arranged, prior to undertaking your trip.
- Some areas of the rail trail have no cell phone coverage.
How many kms a day will I cycle?
The Otago rail trail is approximately 150 kms.
Here is a sample itinerary:
Clyde to Lauder – 44 kms
Lauder to Ranfurly – 47 kms
Ranfurly to Middlemarch – 59 kms
www.otagorailtrail.co.nz has information on all aspects regarding the Otago Rail Trail
All Photos Copyright of Catherine Stewart ©2012