Belgrave to Upper Ferntree Gully Rail Trail

The Belgrave to Upper Ferntree Gully Rail Trail is a scenic shared walking and cycling path that follows the route of the original narrow-gauge railway between Belgrave and Upper Ferntree Gully. Today, the trail provides a pleasant journey through the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges, passing through Belgrave, Tecoma, Upwey and Upper Ferntree Gully while tracing the history of the former Puffing Billy railway corridor.

The trail is approximately 5.6 km one way and takes around 1.5 hours to walk, although many visitors allow longer to explore the historical points of interest along the route. The path is mostly sealed and suitable for walkers, cyclists, prams and scooters.

This section is the more scenic part of the 17km long Ringwood to Belgrave Trail.

Starting near Belgrave Station and the famous Puffing Billy Railway terminus, the trail follows the alignment of the original Upper Ferntree Gully–Gembrook narrow-gauge railway. Interpretive opportunities along the route include former railway formations, bridges and views of the modern railway line. The walk passes through pockets of native vegetation, fern-lined cuttings and leafy suburban landscapes characteristic of the Dandenong Ranges foothills.

Highlights include:

Historic railway alignments dating back to the original narrow-gauge line.
Views of passing Belgrave Line trains.
Forested sections around Tecoma and Upwey.
Easy access to cafés, shops and railway stations along the route.
Connections to other trails including the Ferny Creek Trail and the broader Belgrave Rail Trail network.

The trail can be walked in either direction, with many visitors choosing to start at Belgrave and finish at Upper Ferntree Gully Railway Station before returning by train. Both ends are easily accessible by public transport on Melbourne's Belgrave railway line.

The Belgrave to Upper Ferntree Gully Rail Trail Guide on Walking Maps provides a historical emphasis on the walk.