The Hawthorn to Kew Rail Trail is a short rail trail following part of the former Kew Branch Line that opened in 1887 and closed in 1957 in the inner suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria. The sealed surface trail runs for less than a kilometre, through the L.E. Bray Reserve, between Hawthorn Grove and Chrystobel Crescent. A further short section of the alignment can be followed beside Hilda Crescent, through Grace Park where it previously joined the Belgrave/Lilydale line.
This trail is suitable for wheelchairs or families with prams.
Grade 1 (All-abilities) -Â Perfect for Families and Beginners: Grade 1 on the
AWTGS represents the easiest walking tracks, perfect for families with young children or those new to bushwalking. No prior experience is required. These gentle walks feature a flat, even surface with no steps or steep sections. They are suitable for wheelchair users with assistance due to the even terrain. The total distance of a Grade 1 walk is typically no greater than 5 kilometers, making them a comfortable and manageable option for all ages and fitness levels.
Total distance: 717 m
Max elevation: 44 m
Min elevation: 35 m
Total climbing: 8 m
Total descent: -8 m
Content use
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Gallery
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Access conditions
- 2WD Access
- Public Transport
- Large Car Park
- Accessible Parking
- Drinking Water
About the region
In addition to the trail, L.E. Bray Reserve is great for families. It includes a colourful structure with a wave slide, climbing wall, steering wheel panel, abacus, shop front, climbing mat bridge, rope ladder, rope tunnel to crawl through, small straight slide, inclined walkway, hanging disks and monkey bars. Also a spiders web rope climbing frame, nice train springer and swings. Unshaded seat, water tap and grassy area.
Let someone know
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near L.E. Bray Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Suggest an edit
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Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
Packing checklists
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.