A2O Upper Trail Overview
If you’re short on time, our self-guided A2O upper trail itinerary is the perfect way to enjoy the most dramatic landscapes of the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail in just 3 days.
Explore the golden-tussock lands of the Mackenzie Country and lake-side cycle trails of Lake Pukaki and Lake Ohau, from the base of the mighty Southern Alps to the small alpine village of Omarama.
Add a shuttle back to Twizel at the end of your trip or add an extra night in Omarama to explore – we give you the flexibility and support you need for a stress-free cycling holiday.
Select the map to view your start options – Mt Cook, Jollie River, or Tekapo.
Trips operate between October – April
A2O Upper Trail Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Twizel & get ready for your cycling holiday
We recommend allowing a day of travel to get to Twizel from Christchurch or Queenstown. Take the afternoon to explore this rural township before spending the night in Twizel.
Day 2: Mt Cook Village, Jollie River, or Tekapo to Twizel
Our morning shuttle will take you to your chosen starting point on the trail. Cycle the golden tussock and lakeside trails through the Mackenzie Country to Twizel.
Cycling options:
- Tekapo to Twizel (54km)
- Jollie River to Twizel (61km)
- Mt Cook to Twizel (77km)
Spend the night in Twizel
Day 3: Twizel to Lake Ohau Lodge (38km)
Cycle the sealed canal roads from Twizel to edge of Lake Ohau before following the dedicated lakeside cycle trail around to Lake Ohau Lodge.
Stay the night at Lake Ohau Lodge
Day 4: Lake Ohau Lodge to Omarama (45km)
Cycle to the top of the Tarnbrae highpoint, overlooking Lake Ohau and the Mackenzie plains before heading downhill through the Quailburn. Take a 7km detour to the Clay Cliff rock formations if you have time, or relax in the wood fired Omarama Hot Tubs in town.