Rail Trail Overview
The East Gippsland Rail Trail is one of Victoria’s most scenic long‑distance cycling routes. It’s an absolute must-do for cyclists and can be completed in full or a series of sections.Â
The trail follows the old rail line and is mostly off-road. It meanders through forests, farmland, and small towns with great food.Â
Stretching nearly 100 kilometres between Bairnsdale and Orbost, it’s the perfect adventure for riders of all abilities, whether you’re planning a leisurely day trip or a multi‑day adventure.
Trail Overview: Length, Gradient & Difficulty
The trail follows the former Orbost railway line, offering 96–100 km of riding depending on entry and exit points. If you want to access the East Gippsland Rail Trail from Lakes Entrance, the 26km Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail intersects it 11km east of Bruthen.Â
The overall gradient is gentle with a max elevation of around 146m and a predominantly smooth, hard-packed dirt or gravel surface with occasional bitumen/sealed sections.Â
Difficulty:
Suitable for most fitness levels. The route is considered moderate overall, with long but gradual climbs, particularly between Bruthen and Nowa Nowa as you ascend through Colquhoun Forest.Â
Duration:
Experienced riders can complete the trail in 1-2 days but it can be enjoyed as a series of day trips for those wanting to take their time. Either ride out-and-back to your vehicle or arrange a shuttle pick up or drop off with local operator Venture Out.Â
Trail Sections & What You’ll See
Bairnsdale to Nicholson (9km)
Start at Howitt Park in Bairnsdale and enjoy the fully sealed path to Nicholson. Along the way you’ll cross the historic Nicholson River Bridge.
This is a great spot to pause and enjoy the view with a snack. If you want something warmer, the Nicho General Store is only a few hundred metres from the bridge.Â
Nicholson to Bruthen (21.5km)
After the Nicholson Bridge, the trail continues through farmland. After passing over a couple of creeks, it will climb towards the old Bumberrah station site.
Just prior to arriving at Bruthen you’ll be treated to views of the Tambo River flats and the remains of a timber rail bridge at Deep Creek in Wiseleigh.Â
Stop off in the small town of Bruthen for lunch, coffee, honey tasting, or a spot of shopping. There’s a general store, pharmacy and even a riverside caravan park & campground for those on an extended mission.Â
Bruthen to Nowa Nowa (27km)
After crossing another historic rail bridge over the Tambo River, you’ll leave Bruthen behind.Â
Expect a long, steady climb into the Colquhoun Forest, with large canopies of eucalyptus overhead, plentiful birdlife and breezes to die for.Â
The highlight of this section is the Stony Creek Trestle Bridge. It is 276m long and 19m high. There are some public toilets here and a few informative signs about the historical significance of the old railway line.
From Stony Creek, Nowa Nowa is only a short ride away. For those looking for a place to sleep, the Nowa Nowa Caravan Park is the most easily accessible option from the trail, but Mingling Waters Cafe & Caravan Park is also a good option.Â
Nowa Nowa to Orbost (38km)
After leaving Nowa Nowa behind, the trail crosses Ironstone Creek where you can spot some more trestle bridge remnants. Shortly afterwards you’ll pass Wairewa Trestle Bridge, which is another trail highlight.
The track undulates gently towards Orbost, en route to the Snowy River Floodplains.Â
The trail technically finishes at Burn Road in Newmerella, just before the iconic Snowy Rail Bridge. Most people will continue along the off road link beside the bridge and continue to finish in the town of Orbost.
The 770m section of the Snowy Rail Bridge is in the process of being restored such that it can be ridden along, but for now there’s fantastic historical information displayed on the red pillars at the end closest to Orbost (you can’t miss it!).
For those seeking accommodation to rest up, the Orbost Caravan Park is right in the centre of town, within walking distance of the Orbost Tourist Information Centre.Â
Towns Along the Trail
There are a bunch of great little towns along the East Gippsland Rail Trail that would love to welcome you along your ride:
- Bairnsdale: the train from Melbourne terminates here. Stock up on trail snacks from the supermarket and ask tourist centre staff any last-minute questions. If your bike needs a touch up before you head out, there’s a bike shop in town.
- Nicholson: beloved ‘Nicho Pies’ from the Nicho General Store are begging to be enjoyed from the Nicholson River Bridge on a rest stop.
- Bruthen: with food options to suit every visitor you cannot go wrong here. Pick up snacks from the general store, have a honey tasting experience at Tambo Valley Honey, or enjoy a hearty meal at the pub.
- Nowa Nowa: this is a quiet town surrounded by forest with access to lakes, bush tracks, and local art. Check out the cafe at Mingling Waters for a tasty post-ride burger.
- Orbost: this is the gateway to the Snowy River region. Head to Nicholson Street to find cafes, pubs, and bakeries to satisfy all your post-ride cravings.
Bike Hire & Shuttle Services
If you don’t have your own bike or want support with luggage, pickups or one-way riding, Venture Out in Lakes Entrance will be able to assist.
They have combo packages combining rides on the rail trail with paddling or a visit to Metung Hot Springs (great for recovery!). They also have a ride from Lakes Entrance to Bruthen for lunch before their shuttle returns you to the start.
Contact Venture Out for more information and to customise your trip.
Annual Events on the Trail
Escape the city and escape to the East Gippsland Rail Trail on the Great East Rail Trail Ride held twice a year.
It attracts riders from across Australia for a fully supported, three‑day journey along the trail.Â
Meals, accommodation, entertainment, coffee vans, support crew, and good vibes are all included.Â
Check the Great East Rail Trail Ride website for more information.Â
Support the Trail: Buy a Sticker
East Gippsland’s Visitor Information Centres in Lakes Entrance and Bairnsdale are now stocking East Gippsland Rail Trail Stickers, with all proceeds helping fund the ongoing maintenance and care of the trail.
It’s a great memento of your trip and an easy way to give back to the trail that gives so much.
Time to Ride!
No matter how you like to ride, the East Gippsland Rail Trail offers one of the best rail trail experiences in Australia.Â
