Trail summary

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Quick overview: Discover the charm of the Emerald-Cockatoo Trail, a relaxed 6.2km hike located near Emerald, Australia. This Grade 2 trail is perfect for beginners or those after a leisurely bushwalk, featuring unique views of the iconic Puffing Billy Railway and scenic Wright Forest. Starting behind Gemco Players Community Theatre, follow the distinctive yellow arrows through Emerald Park Lake and onto Bailey Road in Cockatoo. Take note, the trail can be slippery when wet and the hike can be done in either direction. Enjoy a post-hike treat at one of Cockatoo's cosy cafes.

Length: 6.2km

Duration: 2 hrs

Grade 2 (Easy)

Style: One Way

Start: Kilvington Drive Emerald

End: Pakenham Road Cockatoo

Location: Wright Forest Bushland Reserve

State: Victoria

Nearby town: Emerald

From state capital: 54km

Latitude: -37.93441609

Longitude: 145.4408634

Hike Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

Photos

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Hike overview

From Emerald, the trail begins where the Puffing Billy Railway line crosses Kilvington Drive, behind the Gemco Players Community theatre. Yellow arrows are quite distinct and are easy to follow.

A short distance along the track, cross over the train tracks and follow the path to the left. Carefully cross over the Beaconsfield - Emerald Road and head down Crichton Road.

The yellow arrows and signage point off to the right, heading down into Emerald Park Lake. Pass through the main car parking area at the Lake and follow the main entry road around the lake to join the trail again.

Cross over Bellbird Crescent, turn right, and follow the road a short distance until the track starts again on the left, heading uphill and over the Puffing Billy Train line and into Wright forest and follow the arrows along Wright Track. The trail through the forest is gently undulating and has a good firm surface most of the time. It can be slippery when wet and on some loose gravel. Always use caution.

The trail comes out on Bailey Road in Cockatoo, close to the main street. Plenty of cafes and a small IGA in Cockatoo.
Note that this hike can be done as a return hike or in either direction.

Tips

This hike is deal for families and is pram friendly
Cafes in Emerald, Emerald Park Lake & Cockatoo
Public toilets in Emerald, Emerald Park Lake and Cockatoo
Picnic & BBQ facilities in Emerald by the playground on the corner of Kilvington Drive and Heroes Avenue and at Emerald Park Lake
Public bus transport is available between villages, it could be an option to ride or walk one way, use public transport to return to collect a vehicle.
Hikers can also use Puffing Billy as an option, the station in Cockatoo is not attended, but the train does stop and passengers may board. Check timetables and costs via the Puffing Billy website
This is a multi purpose trail so expect bikes and prams to be sharing the trail

Map and GPX file

Emerald to Cockatoo Trail Walk (6.2m)

Total distance: 6202 m
Max elevation: 330 m
Min elevation: 186 m
Total climbing: 74 m
Total descent: -211 m

Download file: Emerald-Cockatoo-Trail.gpx

Getting there

Emerald to Cockatoo Trail Walk (6.2m)

Follow M1 towards the South Eastern Suburbs/Dandenong. Take exit 13 to merge onto Wellington Road/State Route 18 towards State Route 18. Continue straight to stay on Wellington Road/State Route 18. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Wellington Road/C413. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Belgrave-Gembrook Road/C412. At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Kilvington Drive and park in the carpark near Gemco.

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A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.

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Similar trails nearby

Looking for things to do in Wright Forest Bushland Reserve or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.

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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans

Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.

Reviews

Emerald to Cockatoo Trail Walk (6.2m)

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Gear to consider

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe

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.

Trail summary

Hike overview

Tips

Map and GPX file

Emerald to Cockatoo Trail Walk (6.2m)