Managers of the Clutha Gold, Central Otago Rail and Around the Mountains trails all reported improved visitor numbers through Christmas and into January, following a slow start to the summer season as the recession and poor weather impacted holidaymakers.
Those sentiments were matched by commercial operators on some of the trails, such as Waitahuna Coffee Cart co-owner Bob Corona.
Mr Corona said there had been steady growth in riders and customers each year since the trail opened three years ago, and this summer had been no exception.
"We initially wondered if there would be a drop-off in numbers after the initial opening, but that hasn’t occurred.
"We’ve been seeing more overseas tourists this year, mainly Europeans, and they’re impressed with the quality of the trail. From their perspective it’s world class, and just a lovely ride due to the good gradients and wide variety of scenery."
Central Otago Clutha Trails Ltd (COCTL) trail manager Shayne O’Connor, who oversees both the Roxburgh Gorge and Clutha Gold trails, said trail businesses and users were providing positive feedback, after a slow start to the season.
"The peak months have come up nicely, and operators are feeling positive. The economy and the weather can be challenges, and we’ve been doing a lot more maintenance as a result of the weather, but there’s no better way to get away from the rat race than a nice, peaceful ride through Clutha and Central Otago."
Around the Mountains Cycle Trail Trust chairwoman Nicola Wills said the trail was growing in use each year.
"We’re seeing new hospitality operators taking advantage of the increased number of cycle tourists, which is great for everybody. We’re tracking well this season."
Otago Central Rail Trail Trust manager Colin Stevenson said the trail had escaped some of the worst of the weather elsewhere.
"The weather’s been kind, and our operators are very happy with numbers. The trail has good capacity and an international profile, reflected in our high number of riders from abroad this year."
Heading back to Mt Stuart on the Clutha Gold Trail, after a 17km outward leg to the Waitahuna Coffee Cart yesterday, was Dunedin couple Greg Yee and Nic Brown.
Ms Brown said the trail was a "beautiful" contrast to the more gruelling Queen Charlotte trail she and Mr Yee rode three weeks ago.
"This is very peaceful, well made and with beautiful scenery. It’s like a walk in the park."
