Albert Town combines riverside trails with opportunities for walking and cycling, a wetland and local places to stop for a meal. When planning, consider whether you would rather walk along the riverbank, explore a loop track or choose a longer route through the landscape. Nature watching and local history are also among the different aspects of the town.
River Trails and Loop Tracks
The Upper Clutha River Track runs along the river from Albert Town to Luggate. Along the way, there are views of the emerald-green waters of the Clutha River. The track offers shade in summer and shelter from the elements in winter. Check current conditions before setting out.
The Outlet Track is a scenic riverside path along the Clutha River/Mata-Au. Access is from the car park at the end of Gunn Road in Albert Town; the track is also part of the Te Araroa Trail. Fly fishing is the only permitted form of fishing on the section of the river by the Outlet Track; spinning is not allowed there. If you plan to fish, check the applicable rules and licence requirements beforehand.
If you would rather walk or mountain bike a loop than travel between towns, consider the Deans Bank Track. The route lies on public conservation land between Albert Town and Dublin Bay and follows the upper slopes of the Clutha River. Described highlights include views of the surrounding peaks and the Otago landscape. Conditions can vary by season.
Routes for Different Plans
The Hāwea River Track runs from Wānaka to Lake Hāwea via Albert Town. It is described as an easy, family-friendly walking and cycling trail, connecting Albert Town with Hāwea. Its southern end is in the Albert Town Recreational Reserve. Access car parks are at the Albert Town campground and on Domain Road. The route first passes through kānuka scrub and open plains before following the river upstream to Domain Road; the track is also part of the Te Araroa Trail.
Another option is the 9 km Hikuwai Loop, a walking and mountain biking route through native mānuka stands near the Clutha River. For children, Albert Town also has the Gunn Rd Bike Park, a small network of pump tracks and flow lines. The routes differ in their shape and character, so choose according to the activity you have in mind and check the current track status before setting out.
Wetland and Birdlife
The lower lagoon on Allison Avenue is a wetland in Riverside Park, Albert Town. It is home to at least ten native bird species, including white-faced herons and pūkeko. This offers a different focus from the riverside trails: here, the emphasis is on the birdlife of a particular wetland.
Local Places and Local History
At Hook, visitors can catch their own Chinook salmon in spring-fed fishing ponds and have them prepared to eat on site or take away. Hook also serves as a rest stop for cyclists and walkers, offering hot and cold drinks as well as a selection of local wines and beers. Participation conditions and offerings may change; check the latest details before visiting.
Pembroke Pâtisserie in Albert Town specialises in classic French pâtisserie with a modern Kiwi influence. Its offerings include custard squares, doughnuts, pies and almond croissants. Opening and offerings may change here too, so it is worth checking the latest details when planning your visit.
The changing river crossing is part of the town’s history: the James Horn Bridge in Albert Town replaced ferry pontoons that had operated there since about 1862. The date is approximate and refers to the operation of the pontoons.
During your stay, you can combine these experiences according to your interests: river trails and loop tracks, a stop at the lagoon, or a break at Hook and Pembroke Pâtisserie. Before setting out, pay particular attention to current track conditions; if fishing, also check the rules and licence requirements.
Discover more destinations: Makarora, Moonlight, Cardrona, Arthurs Point, Wanaka, Mount Nicholas, Arrowtown, Gibbston.
For the broader travel overview: Queenstown Lakes District.
