Popular Short Rides

Whether you are planning a short trundle with the kids, or riding the trail end to end, our trail guide is a handy starting point.

Take some inspiration from the popular rides below, or view the map, distances and gradients page for full details.

For those planning multiple days riding the trail, Yea, Molesworth, Alexandra and Bonnie Doon and Mansfield are popular towns to stay overnight.

Alternatively, if riding one way,  Double Black Alpine offer passenger, bicycle and luggage transfers along the Rail Trail. They cater for individuals, couples and small groups of up to 12, with same day or multi day experiences.

Short Rides

MANSFIELD LOOP

1.5 kilometre return - beginners and families with small children

Start in Mansfield for a peaceful trundle or walk through the wetlands and enjoy native birds, plants and animals. The trail begins right next to the Visitor Information Centre and seating is available along the route.

YEA TO CHEVIOT TUNNEL:

9 kilometres – beginners and families (mainly uphill to the tunnel)

In Yea you’ll pass the Gothic-styled Yea Railway Station (1889), where you can make use of the playground, skate park, toilets, picnic tables and BBQs. From Yea, the trail passes directly through Cheviot Tunnel – the longest rail trail tunnel in Victoria. Made in 1889 from bricks handcrafted on site, the tunnel is accessible from a nearby carpark. View more on Strava.

TALLAROOK TO TRAWOOL:

11 kilometres - beginners and families

The trail follows the heritage-classified Goulburn River at Tallarook and passes through the Trawool Valley. Classified by the National Trust for its scenic beauty, the region was once frequented by famous artists including Tom Roberts, Frederick McCubbin and Arthur Streeton. View more on Strava.

CATHKIN TO ALEXANDRA:

13 kilometres – riders with some competency

The Cathkin Station platform still stands and the Alexandra Timber Tramway and Museum operates at the old Alexandra Station. Coming out of Alexandra you’ll head up to Eglinton Cutting, which can be a challenge. From the top enjoy the stunning view of Cathedral Range. View on Strava.

Medium Rides

YARCK TO MERTON:

19 kilometres – riders with some competency (hilly)

The trail runs behind Yarck township, but it’s worth riding the 100 metres into town to stop for refreshments. From Yarck travel through scenic farms to Merton Gap – the trail’s highest point at 397 metres. At Merton, wander through the area managed by Merton Landcare or stroll through the historic cemetery. View more on Strava.

BONNIE DOON TO MANSFIELD:

22 kilometres – families and beginners (some uphill gradients)

Heading east the trail crosses Lake Eildon over the 385 metre Bonnie Doon Bridge, passing through stunning farming country with a backdrop of magnificent high country vistas. Entering Mansfield the trail passes through the Mullum Wetlands before it ends (or begins) at the Mansfield Railway Station and Visitor Information Centre. View more on Strava.

BONNIE DOON TO MERTON

15 kilometres – riders with some competency

View on Strava.

Longer Rides

YEA TO ALEXANDRA

35 kilometres - riders with advanced competency (hilly)

There are steep hills about 10 kilometres out of Yea and 5 kilometres before arriving in Alexandra. Take in the stunnning views of the Cathedral Ranges from the Eglinton Cutting near Koriella Station. View more on Strava.

TALLAROOK TO YEA

37 kilometres - riders with advanced competency (hilly)

The trail winds along next to the heritage-classified Goulburn River at Tallarook and passes through the Trawool Valley. This section of the trail is quite up and down. The steep pass about 5 kilometres before ariving in Yea is the biggest climb. View more on Strava.