Hamilton-Coleraine Rail Trail

The Hamilton-Coleraine Rail Trail is a 37 km public walking and cycling trail following the former railway between the outskirts of Hamilton and Coleraine. The trail passes through grasslands, wetlands, volcanic plains and farmland, with native vegetation, wildlife, historic railway earthworks and 15 surviving bridges along the route.

The railway was constructed to serve the Coleraine wool-growing district and the red gum sleeper-cutting industry on the Dundas Tableland. It opened in November 1888 and closed in September 1977. The former railway reserve is now protected for conservation and recreation.

Distance: 37 km one way
Route: Point-to-point
Activities: Walking and cycling
Surface: Unsealed former railway formation with dirt, grass and sections of fine gravel
Bicycles: Gravel bikes and mountain bikes are recommended
Start: Balkins Road rail crossing, Hamilton VIC 3300
Finish: Former Coleraine Railway Station, Whyte Street, Coleraine VIC 3315

The trail passes through or close to the former railway locations of Bocharra, Wannon and Parkwood before reaching Coleraine. Highlights include rural views, railway cuttings and embankments, heritage bridges, native grasslands and access to the Wannon Falls area.

The full trail is long and remote, so families with younger children may prefer to explore a shorter section. Anyone completing the full route should arrange return transport or a vehicle shuttle.

Important Information:

The trail begins at Balkins Road on the outskirts of Hamilton rather than in the Hamilton town centre.
Follow the wayfinding signs and any marked bypasses around bridges or unfinished sections.
Use caution at road crossings.
Carry sufficient drinking water, food, a first-aid kit and a snake-bite kit.
Mobile telephone coverage can be patchy.
There are no regular facilities along most of the trail.
Do not pick wildflowers or disturb native plants and animals.
Fires and collecting firewood are prohibited throughout the rail reserve.
Motor vehicles and motorcycles are prohibited.
Electric bicycles and electric wheelchairs are permitted.
Horses are not permitted.
Check the official interactive map and current trail information before completing the entire route.

Wannon Falls Reserve provides toilets, picnic tables, barbecues and unpowered camping near the trail. Additional toilets, food, drinking water and other facilities are available in Hamilton and Coleraine.

Trail Map:

Hamilton-Coleraine Rail Trail interactive map

Access for Dogs:

Dogs are permitted but must remain on a leash and under control. Owners must clean up after their dogs. Be especially careful around wildlife and livestock adjoining the trail.

Trailheads:

Hamilton trailhead: Balkins Road rail crossing, Hamilton
Coleraine trailhead: Former Coleraine Railway Station, Whyte Street, Coleraine

Location

Balkins Road Rail Crossing, Hamilton View Map

Web Links

→ /hamiltoncolerainerailtrail.com.au

→ Hamilton-Coleraine Rail Trail interactive map