It’ll also mark the start of an even more ambitious project.
The construction of a 48-metre suspension bridge across the Buckler Burn was finished last month, capping off a five-year project to connect the township to the conservation area’s carpark.
The first stage of the trail, a 1km stretch beside the Glenorchy-Queenstown road from the township to Campbelltown, was completed four years ago.
Glenorchy Trails Trust chairman Steve Hewland says curious locals and visitors are already using the Hugo Bridge.
The trail and bridge will be officially opened on August 16, followed by a community barbecue.
"The community’s really got behind us, so it’s a great opportunity to thank everyone who’s been involved."
The bridge’s name refers to the Hugo Charitable Trust, which granted $175,000 to fund its construction.
Hewland says residents had been somewhat isolated from the conservation area because of the risk the Buckler Burn highway bridge posed to riders and walkers.
"If you were unlucky enough to be on the bridge when a vehicle came, it was kind of unnerving."
The trust’s now turning its full attention to a proposed 50km trail from Glenorchy to Queenstown.
It’s a member of an alliance, along with the Queenstown Trails Trust, Queenstown Mountain Bike Club, Southern Eco Trails Trust and Te Araroa, formed about three years ago.
The grouping is working on technical studies and funding for the trail, which is expected to cost about $15 million.
"We’re working together to create what we think will be a jewel in the crown of Queenstown biking," Hewland says.
A Glenorchy to Queenstown trail has been part of the trust’s vision since it was established in 2017, along with trails linking the township to Kinloch and Paradise.
