Rail Trails Australia
Australia's 194 converted-railway shared-use paths — gentle gradients, country towns, historic stations, no traffic. The friendliest way to ride a bike in Australia.
What is a rail trail?
A rail trail is a former railway corridor — usually a regional branch line that lost its commercial viability — converted into a shared-use path for cycling, walking and (often) horse riding. Tracks and sleepers are pulled up, the corridor is resurfaced with compacted gravel or sealed bitumen, and the route opens to the public.
What makes rail trails special is their gradient. Steam and diesel locomotives couldn't climb steep grades, so railway engineers kept the maximum gradient under 2-3% for the entire length of the line. The result, today, is the gentlest long-distance cycling network in the country — accessible to families, beginner riders, retirees, and anyone with a hybrid or gravel bike.
Rail trails also follow a distinctive linear, point-to-point format through old country towns. Most pass through restored heritage stations, trestle bridges and tunnels, with country pubs, bakeries and B&Bs catering specifically to riders. Marquee trails like the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail (161km), Murray to Mountains Rail Trail (137km), and Riesling Trail (35km, through Clare Valley wine country) have become bucket-list rides for cycle tourists.
Rail trails by state
All rail trails
| Trail | State | Distance |
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Frequently asked questions
What is a rail trail?
A rail trail is a converted railway corridor turned into a shared-use path for cycling, walking and (often) horse riding. Because trains can't climb steep hills, rail corridors were engineered to a maximum gradient of around 2-3%, which makes rail trails gentle, family-friendly and accessible to riders of all abilities.
How many rail trails are there in Australia?
Rail Trails Australia catalogues 194 rail trails across seven states and territories. Victoria has the most (49), followed by New South Wales (40), South Australia (31), Queensland (26), Western Australia (25), Tasmania (20) and Northern Territory (3).
What is the longest rail trail in Australia?
The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail in Queensland is Australia's longest at 161 kilometres, running from Wulkuraka (near Ipswich) to Yarraman through the towns of Fernvale, Lowood, Coominya, Esk, Toogoolawah, Moore, Linville and Blackbutt.
Are Australian rail trails sealed or gravel?
Most rail trails are compacted gravel or fine crushed rock — comfortable on hybrid, gravel, mountain or touring bikes but not road bikes. Some sections in metropolitan areas (parts of the Murray to Mountains, Lilydale-Warburton, and shorter urban trails) are fully sealed.
Can I take my dog on a rail trail?
Most rail trails allow dogs on leash, though rules vary by trail and section. Some heritage rail trails or sections that pass through national parks may have restrictions. Always check the specific rail trail's rules before bringing your dog.
Are rail trails free to use?
Yes — all Australian rail trails are free to use. They're funded by state and local governments and supported by volunteer trail associations. Some operators offer paid bike hire, shuttle services, accommodation and guided tours, but the trails themselves are free.
Are rail trails suitable for families?
Rail trails are widely considered the most family-friendly cycling option in Australia. Their flat gradient, lack of car traffic, frequent rest points (old stations, picnic areas, country pubs) and shorter ride distances make them ideal for kids and beginner riders.
What's the difference between a rail trail and a cycling path?
A rail trail is built on a former railway corridor — meaning it has a near-flat gradient, often passes through historic country towns, and follows a long linear route between two terminal stations. A general cycling path may be in any location and have steeper grades. Rail trails are the gold standard for long-distance, no-traffic, gentle-gradient riding.