Life is a beautiful ride
Pedal your way through the picturesque landscapes of East Gippsland as you follow the East Gippsland Rail Trail. Along the way, you'll be greeted by rolling hills, vibrant forests, and charming old bridges that offer breath taking views, making them perfect rest stops. This rail trail stretches almost 100kms, commencing in Bairnsdale and concluding in Orbost.
The countryside transforms continuously as you make your way along the trail. Keep an eye out for wandering wombats and friendly horses. Take your time to explore the charming villages along the route, each offering warm country hospitality and comfortable accommodations for a good night's rest. Whether you're looking for a multi-day adventure or shorter day trips, this trail is perfect for all.
East Gippsland Rail Trail
Start: Howitt Park, McEacharn Street, Bairnsdale
Finish: Burn Road, Newmerella, but there is an off road shared pathway connecting to Orbost.
Grade: Level 1 -2
Popular sections of the East Gippsland Rail Trail
Bairnsdale - Nicholson | 8km
This section of trail is fully sealed and will take you from the commercial hub of Bairnsdale to the idyllic riverside village of Nicholson. Along the way you will see glimpses of the Lakes system, farmland and pass through sections of bush. But by far the most impressive part of this journey is the historic railway bridge over the Nicholson River. Take a short detour off the main trail and reward yourself with a cold beer from The Nicholson Hotel or a famous Nicholson River Pie and coffee from the Nicho Store.
Nicholson - Bruthen | 20km
A gravel section of trail runs between these two very country towns. This ride will take you alongside pastured paddocks filled with sheep and cattle along with plentiful native fauna. Set your sights high for birdlife as you pedal through pieces of tree lined track before appearing in front of the picturesque Bruthen flats and Bruthen village in the distance. No ride along the East Gippsland Rail Trail is complete without a stop at the Bullant Brewery, where you can enjoy a brew or two on the deck whilst filling upon some fabulous local cuisine.
Bruthen - Nowa Nowa | 30km
Riding along this portion of track will take you back in time as you see parts of the historical railroad. Plentiful amounts of bordering forests ensure the shaded trail is hard packed as it climbs steadily through the Colquhoun Forest. For those wishing to take the picturesque link track to Lakes Entrance, the Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail connects here. The magnificent 276 meter long, 19 meter high Stoney Creek trestle bridge shows off before you arrive into the small village of Nowa Nowa. Take some time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, check out the quirky artworks and enjoy a meal burger at Mingling Waters before hitting the next section of trail.
Nowa Nowa to Orbost | 38km
From Nowa to Nowa to Orbost, the trail passes impressive large old trestle bridges, some right beside the trail and others a distance away. The remaining bridges are at Boggy Creek, Ironstone Creek, Wairewa Road and Snowy River flood plains. Old townships and station grounds are passed at Tostaree and Waygara. The trail has good views over the Snowy River as it travels over the last few kilometres into Orbost.
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