The Bass Coast Rail Trail is a 23km, grade 2 hike located along Gippsland's Bass Coast, Victoria. The hike should take around 6 hours to complete.
Hike overview
Experience sprawling farmland in a spectacular coastal setting with an interesting past. Breathe the clean sea air and watch ocean waves crashing on the rocks. Hear wild bird song and discover native animals. This trail offers a very different experience.
The Trail stretches 21km from the old Wonthaggi Railway Station in Murray Street and runs to the Woolamai Racecourse.
Enjoy panoramic views of Bass Strait as you meander through farmland, coastal bushland, historic coal mining reserves and rugged coastline. The Bass Coast Rail Trail also links to the George Bass Coastal Walk at Kilcunda, making it possible to walk from the Punch Bowl in San Remo, all the way to the centre of Wonthaggi.
The terrain is flat with just two moderate climbs, amazing views and an iconic timber bridge to cross.
Some local buses are fitted with bike racks on the front to give an easy option for return trips between Wonthaggi and Anderson, and towns in between.
The trail is predominantly crushed granite with 1km sealed at the Wonthaggi end. Sand appears on the Kilcunda section when it's windy. Wooden bridges require care.
More information and maps are available on the Rail Trail's website.
The trail is available for cyclists and horse riders along its total length from Anderson to Wonthaggi. Horse riding is not permitted in the Wonthaggi town centre. An extension of the trail from Anderson to Woolamai is suitable for walkers and horse riders only.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 74 m
Min elevation: 4 m
Total climbing: 143 m
Total descent: -160 m
Trail location
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Getting there
There are PTV buses from Melbourne to Koo Wee Rup and then another PTV regional service onward to Anderson and stops between Anderson and Wonthaggi .
There are also local buses (South Coast Bus and Phillip Island Bus, phone 03 59522500) servicing towns on the Bass Coast Rail Trail route between Anderson and Wonthaggi. Please Note that some these buses are fitted with bicycle racks on the front of the bus, providing an easy option for return trips.
Access Points:
- Woolamai: The trailhead at the racecourse is closed indefinitely. On-street parking available in McGrath Rd, no facilities.
- Anderson: A great starting point with a large carpark, shelter, toilets, picnic tables and horse corral.
- Kilcunda: Large foreshore reserve with toilets, picnic shelter and shops close by.
- Dalyston: Daly St
- Wonthaggi: Several entry points, with South Dudley Rd the one for horse riders heading west. The restored railway station off Biggs Drive further east has a large reserve on one side and ample parking on the other. The trailhead in Bent St is opposite the Centennial Centre and information office (opening hours are limited).
About the region
Similar trails nearby
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.
3 Reviews on “Bass Coast Rail Trail Walk (23km)”
Aaron Cardy have you done this one? Its been on my list ? hint hint
Deb , have you done this?
Rachael Mullinger
Jasper Riley Darcy Joel
Deb Newman King
Looks good