While this track is considered a reasonably easy track (Grade 2 – 3) there are remote sections of this track that aren’t accessible from the road so when travelling, please ensure that you take contact and safety equipment and water and provisions and be prepared for weather changes. There are extended areas with high exposure on this trail so you should ensure that you’re protected against sun and also against the cold (in cooler months). This trail covers various types of terrain such as dirt and gravel tracks, but the most noteworthy terrain are wooden boardwalks along the edge of Lake Dunstan.
Day 1 – If you were to opt to do the 55kms, you’d start at Smiths Way and head to the Cromwell Heritage Precinct (a local section favourite) as it wanders 16km alongside Lake Dunstan to Cromwell.
Departing Cromwell Heritage Precinct, make your way to Bannockburn Inlet (a 7km section). Follow the Kawarau arm of Lake Dunstan to the Bannockburn bridge. After crossing the Bannockburn bridge loop around to Bannockburn Inlet.
The Bannockburn Inlet to Cairnmuir Gully section (11.3km) loops around the Bannockburn and continues on to Cornish Point before ending in Cairnmuir Gully which is a common place to break up the trail for those who wish to do it over two days.
Day 2 – Cairnmuir Gully to Halfway Hut is an 8.4 km long section and is probably the most technically demanding section on the ride. There’s narrow portions and switchbacks but there’s also marvellous views (with subsequent highly exposed areas) views so please be cautious. Make your way to Halfway Hut.
From Halfway hut, you’ll set out for Dunstan Arm Rowing club (10.7km section). There’s some switchbacks and a couple of tight corners. Theres a couple of lovely picnic spots so be sure to stop for some refreshment in one of the more scenic options. The final 3.5 km of the Dunstan Lake trail takes you down to the Clyde Heritage precinct.
