Clyde to Alexandra

Firstly, at the start of the trail there is plenty of parking options including undercover parking at a price.

The 8km section from Clyde to Alexandra is perhaps the least attractive section of the entire Otago Central Rail Trail as it passes through a flat semi-rural area surrounded by orchards, vineyards and homes.

The highlight of this section of riding is the Muttontown Viaduct which crosses a steam soon after leaving Clyde.  This is one of only two wooden trestle bridges on the trail (the other is at Hyde). The Muttontown name was apparently afforded the bridge from days when a local sheep owner supplied mutton to a nearby miners’ camp.  As you cross the viaduct toward the Alexandra side look out for one of the last standing train signals on the trail.

At the far end of Alexandra you will cross a second bridge over the large Manuherikia River as you ride up onto Little Valley Road.  Standing next to this bridge built for modern times like sentinels of history are the two stone end foundations of the original structure.  After crossing the bridge turn left as the trail heads through the lower reaches of the moonscape Tucker HIlls that dominate the landscape behind Alexandra.

An alternative route from Clyde to Alexandra is the Millennium Trail which crosses over the Clutha River and winds along it’s banks all the way to
Alexandra.  This is a much more scenic ride but also a more technical ride for those new to cycling.

Next route: Alexandra to Chatto Creek