Powelltown Tramway Trails

Enthusiastic bushwalkers will love this 31km journey along the tramways that fed numerous little timber mills in the middle of nowhere.

Also known as Walk Into History, this trail runs along sections of the former Powelltown Tramway east to Nayook West, north over Dowey Spur and then northwest on the Federal Tramway route to Big Pats Creek near Warburton. It can be steep, muddy and hard going. It is not suitable for novice bushwalkers, especially in winter. Signage can be an issue and even experienced bushwalkers should carry maps. The remnant bridges of the tramway are unsafe. Let them rot in peace and follow the walking tracks through the gullies, but be prepared for leeches in wet conditions – wear long trousers or gaiters. If you are looking for more family-friendly adventures, see the CONNECTING PATHS section below.

This gently climbing trail follows a tramway route up Blackwood Gully to the site of Reids Sawmill, which was in use from 1920 to 1930. The starting point is a parking area on the left side of Powelltown-Noojee Rd, about 500m east of Powelltown, past Messmate Close. The trail runs through magnificent tree ferns and tall mountain ash before entering drier stringybark forest. Care should be taken when crossing the bridges over several small streams. A few relics of the mill can still be seen at the top of the trail. A return loop takes you up to Big Bertha Tk and then down sharply to the Powelltown Picnic Area and east along the road on the Walk Into History route before hitting the tramway. We recommend just going up and back on the tramway, especially in hot weather.

Walking east from the Federal Crossing, or Crossroads, the New Federal Mill site is 2km away, with an impressive collapsed tramway bridge along the way. The New Federal operated for 15 years until 1949, ending the tramway era. A 1.4km walking track links the mill to the Ada Tree, a giant mountain ash believed to be 300 years old for those doing the Walk Into History who want to have a quick look. A further 1.8km along Federal Rd is the Ada Tree Reserve car park, if you are looking for an exit point. The gated entry can also be used for disabled access to the tree walkway, but a key is required.