Hike at a Glance
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Important info
This hike is classified as Grade 4 (Hard) primarily due to its distance exceeding 20km. The terrain itself is relatively easy and suitable for most abilities. However, the long distance requires a good level of fitness and preparation. Feel free to turn back at any point for a shorter adventure.
Hike overview
The 46.5km Collie to Darkan Rail Trail passes through bush and picturesque farmlands. In springtime the area is carpeted in wildflowers. The multi-use trail is a pleasant two-day journey suitable for horse and bike riders.
Being an old railway line, the Collie to Darkan trail is a relatively flat walk, cycle or horseride. Supplies are available only in Collie and Darkan with nothing in between the two towns. It's important to carry sufficient food and water for two to three days and arrange pickup at either trailhead. The main overnight stopover point is Bowelling Station, 18kms from Buckingham, but siding sites may be used if required. The trailhead at Buckingham is a 20km drive from Collie along the Coalfield's Highway. At the 20km mark (just after crossing the Collie River) the trail head is on road on the right (South), right next to the highway. Buckingham is on the left of the highway (North), but there is nothing much there- an old church and a couple of houses. The Trail goes down a sealed road for 1km then turns left into the old train line. There are distance markers there. Buckingham to Bowelling 18kmnBowelling to Darkan 28.5km Detailed route maps are available from the Follow my Ride website.
Tips
Start Point: Buckingham - on the Coalfields Highway, 20kms east of Collie (160kms south of Perth)
End Point: Darkan Railway Station
Region: Collie, South West
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
Track grade
Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Walk map and GPX file
Do you have a GPX file for this hike? Feel free to email it to me so I can add it to this hikes info.
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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
Got any photos from this hike? Your photos can help others plan. Share shots from along the trail so fellow hikers know what to expect.
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Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Collie.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
About the region
The drive into Collie along the top of the Darling Scarp offers picturesque views of the surrounding jarrah forest, hills and farmland. In addition to its natural beauty, this historic town, nestled on the banks of the Collie River, has a rich coal mining history that can be explored through a tour of the replica underground coal mine or a visit to the Coalfields Museum.
Many visitors now head to Collie for outdoor activities in the Collie River Valley, such as camping, cycling and water sports. The inland lakes are a highlight, especially the beautiful Black Diamond, which has risen to Instagram fame due to its vibrant colour, and Stockton Lake, Glen Mervyn Dam and Potters Gorge, which are popular with water skiers. For canoeing or picnicking, the picturesque Minninup Pool, Potters Gorge or Honeymoon Pool are good options.
There are plenty of options for bushwalkers and mountain bike enthusiasts as the Bibbulmun Track and Munda Biddi Trail pass close to Collie. It is particularly beautiful in spring, as the trails are usually full of wildflowers.
Find a place to stay
Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.
Closest towns to this walk: Boyup Brook, Dardanup, Darkan, Donnybrook, Wellington Mill
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 Collie? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Suggest an edit
Notice something different about this trail? Whether it’s a new feature, a route change, or a closure, share your update so we can keep our info accurate and helpful for fellow hikers.
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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.
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.






