The 21 Most Incredible Rail Trails Around Australia

Saddle up – it’s time for an off-road adventure on the rails.

These trails might have been built when the world was run on steam trains, but today they are all about pedal (and foot) power. Here are our favourite rail trails across Australia.

NSW | SA | Qld | Tas | Vic | NT | WA

NSW

1. Northern Rivers Rail Trail

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail crisscrosses the Tweed and Richmond Valley regions. So far, the 24-kilometre Tweed and 13.4-kilometre Richmond Valley sections have been completed. Check out Wollumbin/Mount Warning, see glow worms (and microbats, if you’re lucky) in the Burringbar Range Tunnel, and over two dozen restored and bypassed bridges.

Two people cycling the Northern Rivers Rail Trail — Traverse the Northern Rivers Rail Trail.

Some sections have compact gravel and sealed surfaces, making these parts of the trail wheelchair and pram accessible, as well as accessible for scooters, bikes and walkers, and bridleways for horses.

Aerial shot of Two people cycling the Northern Rivers Rail Trail — The Northern Rivers Rail Trail crisscrosses the Tweed and Richmond Valley regions.

2. Fernleigh Track

The Fernleigh Track is a sealed rail trail near Newcastle, which is popular with work commuters and families. There are plans to extend the 15-kilometre shared pathway further to Swansea.

an aerial view of the Fernleigh Track at sunrise — The Fernleigh Track is popular with families.

Cycle through green bushland, wetlands and past historical stations and heritage railway detritus, with connecting tracks to Lake Macquarie. There are plenty of access points and car parks on the route and it is considered to be an easy grade.

biking through a tunnel at Fernleigh Track — Cycle through heritage railway tunnels along the Fernleigh Track. (Image: City of Newcastle)

3. Tumbarumba to Rosewood Rail Trail

Cycle through the dramatic Snowy Mountains landscapes, past Mt Kosciusko, on the 21-kilometre Tumbarumba to Rosewood Rail Trail . As well as the awe-inspiring valley and farmland views and vineyard cellar doors, interpretive signage explains the historical sites on the trail – including the remains of railway tracks, restored rail bridges and Pioneer Women’s Hut Museum.

an aerial view of the Tumbarumba to Rosewood Rail Trail — The Tumbarumba to Rosewood Rail Trail passes through a scenic sub-alpine countryside.

The track is sealed with gentle gradients, making it accessible to prams, mobility scooters and bicycles, as well as mountain bikes.

passing by a huge Tumbarumba sign on a bicycle — The track is accessible.

South Australia

4. Riesling Trail

The Riesling Trail is a 33-kilometre trail through the wine country of the Clare Valley. It is relatively easy with the length of it a fully graded and flat gravel track, although cycling is one of the more popular forms of taking in the cellar door vineyards and farmlands.

bikers passing by the wine country of the Clare Valley along The Riesling Trail — Wind your way through the wine country of the Clare Valley. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission / Adam Bruzzone)

5. Coast to Vines Rail Trail

Make your way down to the south of Adelaide for a day of cycling, strolling or horse riding on the Fleurieu Peninsula. The 38-kilometre Coast to Vines Rail Trail takes in sea views to vineyards, passing the shiraz cellar doors of McLaren Vale and the granite boulders of Hallett Cove. The shared-use trail has bitumen, making it suitable for prams and wheelchairs, as well as bikes, walkers and horses in certain sections.

a couple alongside their bicycles stopping by a vineyard along the Coast to Vines Rail Trail — Stop by sprawling vineyards along the Coast to Vines Rail Trail.

6. Barossa Rail Trail

Continue the vineyard theme on the 40-kilometre sealed track between Gawler and Angaston. The highlight is of course the Barossa cellar doors, but other sites of interest include looking at the North Para River, and pines. The trail encompasses parts of varying difficulty, with some sections suited to prams.

biking along the vineyards on the Barossa Rail Trail — On the Barossa Rail Trail, you’ll pass by verdant vineyards.

Queensland

7. Brisbane Valley Rail Trail

Australia’s longest rail trail is an off-road path that follows the old Brisbane Valley railway line from Wulkuraka in Ipswich to Yarraman in the Queensland countryside.

biking along the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail — Pass beneath one of the smaller wooden trestle bridges along the trail between Esk – Toogoolawah. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

One of its more famous attractions are the remnants of settler history – like the Lockyer Creek Bridge and Yimbun Tunnel – old train stations, farming and bushlands. Although much of the trail is considered gentle, it is best navigated by mountain bikes, horses or on foot.

an aerial view of bikers along the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail — At 161 kilometres, the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail is Australia’s longest rail trail. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

8. Atherton Tablelands Rail Trail

Saddle up in Tropical North Queensland for the Atherton Tablelands Rail Trail , a 20-kilometre trip that traverses between Atherton to Walkamin and is 88 kilometres from Cairns.

bikers passing by the Atherton Tablelands Rail Trail — Wind your way along the Atherton Tablelands Rail Trail on two wheels.

The trail takes in agricultural towns and farmers markets, the Second World War and Aboriginal history, and critically endangered Mabi Forest. The trail is coarse gravel and suited for mountain and touring bicycles, horse riding, prams and walking. It is best completed in the dry season between April and September.

the Atherton Tablelands Rail Trail — It is best to complete this trail in the dry season.

9. Mary to Bay Rail Trail

Up by K’gari on the Fraser Coast, this relatively easy trail of 32 kilometres consists of two sections – the sealed area by Hervey Bay and the unsealed rural section through the bushlands. Areas are still partly under construction.

the Mary to Bay Rail Trail signage — The Mary to Bay Rail Trail is a relatively easy trail that spans 32 kilometres. (Image: Garry Long)

From the trail , cyclists can spot the Urangan Pier, beaches and cafes, and paperbark forests. Depending on the section, some pathways are suitable for prams, scooters and wheelchairs, while others are best tackled with mountain, hybrid and tour bikes, horses and walkers.

the wooden platform of Mary to Bay Rail Trail — Tackle the serene rural rail trail between Nikenbah and Maryborough.

Tasmania

10. North East Tasmania Rail Trail

The old rail corridor from Lilydale to Scottsdale in North East Tasmania has been recreated as a rail trail . Currently clocking in at 28 kilometres, there are plans to expand it to 40 kilometres.

A peaceful route, the highlight is the ambiance of its gorgeous forest vegetation and mountain views. It is best suited to mountain bikes and walkers, as well as touring or hybrid bikes.

the North East Tasmania Rail Trail — Take on the rail trail from Lilydale to Scottsdale in North East Tasmania.

11. Railton to Sheffield Rail Trail

The 24-kilometre trail between Railton to Sheffield in North West Tasmania follows an old rail corridor. It includes dairy farmlands, the bush and plantations of international vegetation and trees. This makes for the perfect summer hike or a fast-paced mountain bike trail, with on-road and rough gravel sections.

riding a bicycle through Railton to Sheffield Rail Trail — Ride through scenic forest vegetation along the Railton to Sheffield Rail Trail.

12. Launceston Heritage Forest Trail

The Launceston Heritage Forest Trail is an easy-to-medium five-kilometre loop track from the centre of town. Making its way through Heritage Park, pram walkers, dog walkers, wheelchair-users and joggers alike can check out over two dozen eucalyptus species and bushland flowers on the sealed walk.

Victoria

13. Great Victorian Rail Trail

The Great Victorian Rail Trail winds its way from Tallarook on the Goulburn River to the Mansfield High Country on a former railway line in north central Victoria. At 132 kilometres it is the state’s longest rail trail and the second longest in the country.

bikers passing by the beautiful curve along the Great Victorian Rail Trail — Take on the 132-kilometre Great Victorian Rail Trail.

There are five kilometres of bridges to traverse, the state’s only rail trail tunnel at Lake Eildon at Bonnie Doon, and art trail scenic spots. The shared-use trail consists of compacted earth and fine gravel, with plenty of sections accessible to prams and wheelchairs. It is also popular for mountain biking, horse-riding and touring bikes.

two bikers exploring a historic structure along the Great Victorian Rail Trail — Explore the many historical landmarks along the Great Victorian Rail Trail.

14. Murray to Mountains Rail Trail

You can find another High Country rail trail in north east Victoria, the 116-kilometre Murray to Mountains Rail Trail , which stretches between Rutherglen and Bright. It takes in mountains, farmland and wine country, with the towns of Wangaratta, Beechworth, and Myrtleford making popular stop-offs.

biking across the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail along the scenic greenery — The Murray to Mountains Rail Trail passes through charming rural towns. (Image: Tourism Australia)

It is recommended that you take this track during the autumn months, with its gorgeous hues of red and orange. Almost all of this trail is sealed, making it accessible to prams and wheelchairs. Mountain biking is a popular activity here.

biking along the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail in autumn — The track is most beautiful in autumn. (Image: Ride High Country)

15. Great Southern Rail Trail

The Great Southern Rail Trail stretches from Nyora to Yarram down in South Gippsland, close to the popular Wilsons Promontory National Park. Over 129 kilometres there is an enormous mix of landscapes, including river valleys, forests and fascinating historical towns.

an aerial view of the forested trail along the Great Southern Rail Trail — The Great Southern Rail Trail stretches over 129 kilometres through forests and river valleys.

This rail trail is a mix of easy to difficult terrain, constructed from hard-packed crushed granite and fine gravel, with sections for horse riding.

biking along the Great Southern Rail Trail — Explore scenic landscapes on two wheels across the Great Southern Rail Trail.

Northern Territory

16. Old Ghan Railway Heritage Trail

This epic 180-kilometre track starts at Alice Springs and covers the Old Ghan Railway all the way to Oodnadatta in Outback SA.

a train passing through the Old Ghan Railway Heritage Trail — The Old Ghan Railway Heritage Trail journeys over Australia’s hot, dry centre. (Image: Tourism Northern Territory/ Tourism Australia)

This old, red dirt trade route takes in the rich desert landscape and can be covered by hikers, as well as off-road drivers.

a historical site along the route of the Old Ghan Railway Heritage Trail — Hikers can also tackle this trail. (Image: Greg Snell)

17. East Point Science Trail

Start at Darwin’s East Point Reserve for this easy 7.3-kilometre loop trail that is full of things to do. Mangrove boardwalks, monsoon forests and sunset ocean views interweave with old military buildings from the Second World War and the Darwin Military Museum, playgrounds and the saltwater Lake Alexander. This partially paved walk is suitable for joggers, walkers and cyclists.

Cyclists on the East Point Science Trail in Darwin — The East Point Science Trail is suitable for joggers, walkers and cyclists.

18. Katherine Rail Trail

This sealed 23-kilometre loop track runs from Katherine Station, traversing the Katherine River and following the old North Australian Railway. You can also see remains of the heritage railway with helpful information on the old town of Emungalan. This rail trail is suitable for prams, wheelchairs and scooters, as well as mountain bikes and walkers.

Western Australia

19. Munda Biddi Trail

This long-distance adventure covers around 1000 kilometres between the Perth suburb of Mundaring and the town of Albany by the Great Southern Ocean. However, you certainly only need to do a section of this off-road cycling trail or can make your way bit by bit, camping out at the trail shelters.

coastal views from the Munda Biddi Trail — Follow the coastal route for picturesque views. (Image: Munda Biddi Trail Foundation / Miles Arbour)

It follows the Darling Range, crossing eucalyptus forests and coastal outlooks, with sections of varying accessibility.

biking along the forested area at Munda Biddi Trail — The Munda Biddi Trail meanders through eucalyptus forests. (Image: Munda Biddi Trail Foundation / Miles Arbour)

20. Kep Track

East of Perth, this 76-kilometre track covers all the way out to Northam in the Avon Valley. Perfect for cyclists, horse riders or walkers wanting to get in that long-distance step count, the route itself takes in Marri and Jarrah forests and the spring wildflowers of Beelu National Park.

biking in a forest at Kep Track — The Kep Track is perfect for cyclists, horse riders or walkers.

21. Railway Reserve Heritage Trail

This 41-kilometre bushwalk in the Perth Hills follows the route of the old Eastern Railway, taking in the Darling Range and John Forrest National Park and the railway settlements. This trail is suitable for walkers, cyclers, campers and horse riders.

Rail Trails Australia is a not-for-profit organisation that relies on donations and memberships. You can donate to them here .

Warmer days call for slowing down and relaxing in nature. Discover why The Tweed is the ultimate destination to do just that.

As the end of the year draws near, the need for rest and restoration grows ever more prominent. For many, that means heading into nature – and there’s plenty of science to back up the benefits of doing so. It quite literally makes us happier as it reduces stress hormones, lowers our blood pressure and more. And what better place to lean into this feel-good effect than during summer in The Tweed (in the Northern Rivers region of NSW)? Blending sparkling beaches, riverside towns and hinterland villages, this area has nature covered, while also offering top activities and dining options.

And of course, pack your SPF. We Are Feel Good Inc’s Ultra-Light Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula that keeps your skin hydrated and shielded, thanks to nourishing Coconut Oil and Vitamin E. But it’s also helping preserve the natural beauty around you on your Tweed vacation, thanks to 30 per cent ocean waste packaging.

Discover eight experiences that make The Tweed the perfect place for summer.

1. Underwater worlds

two people swimming after turtle on the tweed — Get a chance to swim with the locals.

There’s something about the ocean that calls to us as humans, and what’s below the surface is even more magical.

Green, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles (not to mention an abundance of other marine life) all use the protected waters around Cook Island, near Fingal Head, as their foraging ground, making it the perfect place to dive and snorkel to spot these adorable creatures.

Join Cooly Eco Adventures on a guided snorkelling tour that combines unforgettable turtle encounters with an inspiring look into marine conservation.

2. Farm-to-table dining

table spread at Potager restaurant — Treat your taste buds at Potager. (Image: Cara Sophie)

Respecting the land and nature also means appreciating its abundance of food. From farm-to-table cafes and boutique breweries to river cruises and restaurants championing local produce, dining around The Tweed often means engaging with the best local producers.

The award-winning Potager Restaurant , part of The Hinterland Collection , is the perfect example; beginning life as a kitchen garden, the passion to champion local producers is woven into every dish. Vegetables, fruit and herbs are picked from the garden or sourced from other local producers, the seafood comes from the Northern Rivers, and meat is sourced from ethical local producers. Even the cocktail list features local distillers.

Extend your stay with a night (or several) at boutique on-site accommodation, Potager House . This French-inspired country four-bedroom retreat boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills and nearby ocean, as well as a large pool, outdoor entertaining area and infrared sauna.

3. Water wellness

Waterguru Mindfulness in the Mangroves summer on the tweed — Find mindfulness in mangroves. (Image: Matt Johnson)

You’ll find mindfulness while floating around the mangroves of Kingscliff’s Cudgen Creek at any time, but Watersports Guru offers an immersive experience to help guests do so with more intent. Join a 90-minute guided session on a stand-up paddleboard to reconnect with nature and relax through breathwork, gentle movement and sensory awareness.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, Watersports Guru also offer Kayak fishing adventures or join a Sea Turtle Odyssey experience.

4. Restorative seaside stays

woman relaxing in spa at Halcyon Wellness, halcyon house — Unwind at Halcyon Wellness.

The Tweed encourages locals and visitors alike to slow down. To really indulge, a seaside stay is a must. Halcyon House has understood the assignment, blending a wellness philosophy centred on balance and self-discovery with luxurious surrounds. Stay in one of 22 rooms and suites (each individually designed by eclectic interior designer Anna Spiro) right on the beachfront. Book restorative treatments at the onsite spa, Halcyon Wellness, relax by the pool, dine at the hatted Paper Daisy restaurant and just let The Tweed work its magic.

While Blue Water Motel offers a relaxed coastal escape, just steps from Kingscliff Beach. Settle in stylish rooms, recently restyled by Jason Grant, nodding to the cool of Kingscliff with a fun retro vibe. Hire a bike from reception to explore the surrounding area.

5. Tasty drops

The owners at Husk Farm Distillery aren’t just about creating high-quality rum: they’re also farmers themselves. In fact, they create one of the world’s only single estate, farm-to-bottle spirits. Join a Farm to Bottle tour to discover the sustainable ‘full circle’ distilling practices used here, and even get hands-on with your own cane knife to help harvest and juice your own stalk of cane. And, of course, a welcome drink plus complimentary tastings along the way.

6. Rail trail adventures

Exploring the rolling green slopes and historic towns of the 24-kilometre Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is one of the best ways to connect with the region’s lush hinterland and interesting heritage. In this section of the trail, discover the area’s railway history at heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station, and traverse by 18 railway bridges and through two railway tunnels.

Linking vibrant towns and villages with the larger hub of Murwillumbah, this section of the trail is covered in asphalt or compacted gravel, making it accessible for all ages and abilities, from prams to adaptive bikes.

7. Linger longer

surfer at fingal heads the tweed — Enjoy beachside locations, like Fingal Heads.

Linger longer at one of the seven idyllic beach, river and creekside locations of Tweed Holiday Parks – including at Tweed Heads, Kingscliff Beach, Hastings Point and Pottsville South. All just steps from the water’s edge, they make the ideal base to unwind, or head out for exploration of The Tweed. Choose from luxury waterfront cabins, accessible cabins, surfari tents (yes, they are basically glamping tents) or spacious sites for caravans, motorhomes and campervans or tents.

Find your feel-good summer in The Tweed at visitthetweed.com.au .