Trail Fast Facts

Bellarine Rail Trail is a 32.5km, grade 3 hike in Bellarine Peninsula, Victoria. This hike typically takes 2 days to complete.

Length: 32.5km

Duration: 2 days

Grade 3 (Moderate)

Style: One Way

Start: South Geelong

End: Queenscliff

Location: Bellarine Peninsula

State: Victoria

Nearby town: South Geelong

From state capital: 76km

Latitude: -38.162878

Longitude: 144.364915

Overview

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Directions

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Hike Overview

From South Geelong the trail climbs gently to Leopold

A great day or weekend destination close to Melbourne and Geelong with scenery ranging from suburban to rolling farmland to the picturesque Swan Bay.
The Bellarine Peninsula has fine wineries, beaches and landscapes, and a wealth of other recreation opportunities.
From Drysdale to Queenscliff the trail is beside the Bellarine Peninsula Tourist Railway. The tourist railway is happy to take bicycles on their trains if you don't want to ride in one (or both!) directions of this section.

For more information on this trail see the book Rail Trails of Victoria and South Australia.

The line was opened from Geelong to Queenscliff in 1879 to carry soldiers and materials to assist in the defence of Port Phillip Bay from possible attack by the Russians. It also carried holiday makers to the popular seaside resort of Queenscliff. The line was closed in 1976, but the section from Drysdale to Queenscliff was reopened as a tourist railway in 1981. It officially became a rail trail in 2000.

Track Grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

Tips

South Geelong to Queenscliff in Melbourne Region

Bellarine Peninsula, 75km from Melbourne

Fine gravel, Sealed

Hilly

Photo credit: Rail Trails Australia. For more information and a location map please visit RailTrails Australia.

Map and GPX file

Bellarine Rail Trail Walk (32.5km)

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Trail Location (trailhead)

Getting there

Bellarine Rail Trail Walk (32.5km)

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About the region

Soak up the good life in the Geelong and Bellarine region. Wander down historic streetscapes and tee off at lush golf courses, perfect for summer afternoons. Explore the burgeoning foodie scene, complete with craft breweries, local wineries, farm gates and provedores. Surf, paddle and swim at bay and ocean beaches, and get close to local wildlife in Port Phillip Bay.

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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

What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? 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.

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Bellarine Rail Trail Walk (32.5km)

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