Discover Great Rides, Great Walks and Great Art on the Great Victorian Rail Trail This Autumn

Looking for an epic bike riding adventure filled with crisp mornings, warm days and unforgetable cycling this Autumn? How about pedalling part or all of the 134km of rail trail adventure from Tallarook to Mansfield with a branch line to Alexandra!

With short to long rides, outdoor art, Victoria’s longest rail trail tunnel, personality-filled towns, red and gold autumn leaves and rolling landscapes, the Great Victorian Rail Trail is a must-ride this season.

7 Outdoor Art Pieces and 20 Scar Trees

There’s now even more to see on the Great Victorian Rail Trail. Discover seven outdoor art installations and 20 scar trees thoughtfully created by eight artists. Each artist brings a unique perspective to the theme of ‘connections’, exploring ties to country, the local environment, the trail’s history and community. Inspire, learn and interact on this active art journey … and don’t forget the camera!

There’s plenty to see on the Great Victorian Rail Trail with recent art installations along with numerous scar trees.

From 1.5 to 130+ Kilometre Rides

Whether you’re looking for a multi-day adventure, full day of fun or a short ride for the family the Great Victorian Rail Trail has you covered. Choose from mapped rides ranging from 1.5km to the whole 134km journey and beyond.

From easy family rides through to multi-day bikepacking trips, the trail features something for all riders.

Highlights include:

Mansfield – Bonnie Doon | 22km | Highlights include the 385m Bonnie Doon bridge near Mullum Wetlands, ‘Responding’ art piece and scar tree art pieces, plus the Lake Eildon and the Mansfield townships.

Cathkin to Alexandra | 15km | Highlights – Alexandra Timber Tramway and Museum, Eglinton Cutting, scar tree art and the Alexandra township

Yarck to Yea | 28km | Highlights – Historic trestle bridges, ‘Soul Train’ art piece and scar tree art pieces, Cheviot Tunnel (Victoria’s longest rail trail tunnel at 201m), Yea Wetlands Discovery Centre and the towns of Yea and Yarck.

Trawool to Tallarook | 14km | Highlights – National Trust ‘Scenic Classified’ Trawool Valley, Trawool Estate four restaurants and bars, ‘Nook’ art piece, ‘Traces’ art piece and Scar Tree art pieces and Tallarook township.

Charming Towns, Eats & Drinks

There are 12 picturesque towns and villages along the trail to support your rolling good time. Each town has its own personality with cycle-friendly accommodation, boutique shopping, character-filled country pubs, elevated wineries, relaxing cafes and stacks of off-bike activities for riders of all ages and abilities.

The trail offers plenty of places to stop, rest and refresh along the way.

Stunning Natural Beauty & Unique Experiences

Stunning scenery abounds on the Great Victorian Rail Trail with almost 50 water crossings, unique historical features and the rolling hills of National Trust scenic classified Trawool Valley.

At 201m in length, the Cheviot Tunnel is Victoria’s longest on any rail trail.

Ride through the inky dark of the 201m Cheviot Tunnel (Victoria’s longest rail trail tunnel), picnic next to Lake Eildon’s sparkling waters, pedal along the banks of the Goulburn River and more.

Explore Your Way with Shuttles & Bike Hire

See the best of the Great Victorian Rail Trail your way over a day, a weekend or a whole week. The trail has multiple access points allowing you to self-drive or book a customised shuttle to maximise your ride time with Double Black Alpine or Locals Day Out. Why not take things up a spoke with a fully supported tour with gourmet Tour de Vines.

Need wheels? You can rent a bike or e-bike in Mansfield from All Terrain Cycles or in Yarck from Yarck Bikes.

There are options for all riders, whether you take your own bike or rent from one of the region’s reputable providers.

How to get there

The Great Victorian Rail Trail is an easy 1.5 – 2.5 hour drive from Melbourne, depending upon your start location. The trail can also be reached by train with services stopping at Tallarook Railway Station.

Keen on further details? Visit https://www.greatvictorianrailtrail.com.au to plan your trip today.