Kalimna West - Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail
The Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail is a scenic cycling and walking trail through Colquhoun State Forest, connecting the East Gippsland Rail Trail with the beautiful coastal town of Lakes Entrance.
The approximately 23km trail follows forest tracks, sections of an old timber and stone tramway and quiet country roads, passing through attractive eucalypt forests and beside Mississippi Creek.
One of the highlights is the historic Mississippi Creek Quarry, where granite was once extracted and transported by tramway to help construct the artificial entrance to the Gippsland Lakes.
Families can explore shorter sections of the trail rather than completing the entire route.
Trail Details:
- Distance: Approximately 23km one way between Colquhoun and Lakes Entrance.
- Bruthen to Lakes Entrance: 36km one way, including the connecting section of the East Gippsland Rail Trail.
- Bairnsdale to Lakes Entrance: 65km one way using the East Gippsland Rail Trail and Discovery Trail.
- Difficulty: Grade 2-3, with some steep and rough sections.
- Track: Gravel, compacted earth, forest tracks, shared paths and sealed and unsealed roads.
- Activities: Mountain biking, cycling and walking.
- Start: Junction with the East Gippsland Rail Trail near Seaton Track, Colquhoun State Forest.
- Finish: Lakes Entrance.
- Alternative Access: Log Crossing Picnic Area and Scriveners Road, Kalimna West.
- Highlights: Mississippi Creek, old tramway remains, historic granite quarry, native forest and wildlife.
Trail Description:
The trail begins near the junction of Seaton Track and the East Gippsland Rail Trail in Colquhoun State Forest.
The northern section follows bush tracks through eucalypt forest, with some steep descents towards the Mississippi Creek valley.
After approximately 4km, the trail reaches the site of the historic Mississippi Creek Quarry.
From the quarry, the route follows the old tramway formation along Mississippi Creek, passing through peaceful forest containing wattles, blackwoods, stringybarks and Manna Gums.
The former tramway route is one of the most attractive sections of the trail, with gentle gradients, creek crossings and reminders of the area's industrial past.
The trail passes Log Crossing Picnic Area before continuing south towards Scriveners Road.
From Scriveners Road, the route climbs towards Colquhoun Road and continues towards Lakes Entrance along a mixture of shared paths and country roads.
The final section descends towards the coast, with glimpses of the surrounding countryside and Gippsland Lakes.
Historic Mississippi Creek Quarry:
The Mississippi Creek Quarry is one of the most interesting attractions along the trail.
The quarry opened in 1904 to supply granite for construction and maintenance of the artificial entrance to the Gippsland Lakes.
A tramway was constructed to transport the heavy stone from the quarry through the forest to barges on North Arm.
The stone was then transported by water to the entrance, where it was used to strengthen the artificial channel.
The quarry continued operating for several decades before closing during the 1940s.
Today, visitors can see remnants of the quarry and tramway, including old cuttings, sleepers and granite blocks.
A viewing area and interpretive signs provide information about the quarry's history.
Some large granite blocks can still be seen beside the former tramway route, having fallen from wagons during transportation.
Log Crossing Picnic Area:
Log Crossing Picnic Area is a convenient starting point for families wanting to enjoy a shorter section of the Discovery Trail.
Located in Colquhoun State Forest, the picnic area provides access to the old tramway route along Mississippi Creek.
Facilities include:
- Picnic tables.
- Toilets.
- Shaded forest surroundings.
- Access to walking and cycling trails.
- Nearby designated bush camping areas.
For a short family outing, follow the tramway trail north from Log Crossing for a manageable distance before turning around.
The full ride from Log Crossing to Mississippi Creek Quarry and back is approximately 15km and is better suited to confident riders.
Wildlife and Forest Scenery:
Colquhoun State Forest is home to a variety of native plants and animals.
The trail passes through forests containing wattles, Blackwood, Stringybark and Manna Gum.
Wildlife that may be encountered includes:
- Superb Lyrebirds.
- Wombats.
- Wallabies.
- Possums.
- Echidnas.
- Goannas.
- Other native birds and forest animals.
Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, but the peaceful forest environment provides opportunities for observing nature.
Family Cycling:
Families with younger children are best advised to choose a shorter section of the Discovery Trail rather than attempt the entire 23km route.
The forest tracks around Log Crossing are an appealing option for families with children who are confident riding on gravel and compacted earth.
The relatively gentle old tramway sections are particularly enjoyable, although there are occasional rough surfaces and creek crossings.
Mountain bikes or hybrid bikes with suitable tyres are recommended.
Some sections of the full route have steep gradients, and the southern connection to Lakes Entrance includes road riding, making it less suitable for inexperienced cyclists.
Getting There:
There are several ways to access the Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail.
From Kalimna West: Access the southern forest section via Scriveners Road, which crosses the Discovery Trail. This provides access towards the Mississippi Creek tramway section.
From Lakes Entrance: Follow Myer Street, Palmers Road and Colquhoun Road towards Scriveners Road.
From Bruthen: Follow the East Gippsland Rail Trail east towards Colquhoun State Forest. The Discovery Trail branches south near Seaton Track, approximately 12km from Bruthen.
From Log Crossing: Follow Uncles Road to Log Crossing Picnic Area, where parking and picnic facilities provide a convenient starting point for shorter walks and rides.
Important Information:
- The trail is mostly off-road, but the southern section includes country roads and shared paths.
- Some forest sections are steep, rough or narrow.
- Mountain bikes are recommended for the forest sections.
- Carry drinking water, as there is no treated drinking water available along the trail.
- Bring food, suitable clothing, a map and bicycle repair equipment.
- Mobile phone reception may be unreliable in parts of the forest.
- Watch for wildlife, fallen branches and other obstacles.
- Take extra care at creek crossings and after heavy rain.
- Dogs are permitted in the state forest, subject to relevant regulations.
- Check current track conditions, road closures and fire warnings before visiting.
- For the entire one-way trail, arrange transport back to the starting point.
Opening Hours:
The trail is generally accessible throughout the year, subject to forest access restrictions, maintenance and weather conditions. See current trail information and conditions.
Cost:
Free.
Review:
The Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the beautiful forests surrounding Lakes Entrance while discovering an interesting chapter of the region's industrial history.
The highlight is the former Mississippi Creek tramway, which winds through peaceful forest beside the creek and provides an enjoyable setting for cycling and walking.
The remains of the historic granite quarry are another fascinating attraction, offering a glimpse into the enormous effort involved in creating and maintaining the artificial entrance to the Gippsland Lakes.
The forest scenery is particularly attractive, with tall eucalypts, shady gullies, native birds and occasional wildlife sightings adding to the experience.
One of the best options for families is to start at Log Crossing Picnic Area and enjoy a shorter out-and-back ride or walk along the old tramway route.
The picnic facilities and toilets at Log Crossing make this a convenient place to stop for lunch or a rest.
However, the full Discovery Trail is not suitable for all families. Some sections have steep hills, rough surfaces and road connections, so younger children and inexperienced cyclists may find the entire route challenging.
The lack of drinking water and limited facilities along the longer sections are also important considerations.
For families with older children who enjoy mountain biking, bushwalking and exploring historic places, the Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail offers a memorable outdoor adventure in East Gippsland.
Location
Scriveners Road, Kalimna West 3909 View Map
Web Links
→ www.exploreoutdoors.vic.gov.au/activities/mountain-biking/gippsland-lakes-discovery-trail
