Trail Fast Facts
Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail is an 116km, grade 3 hike in Northern Victoria, Victoria. This hike typically takes 7 days to complete.
Hike Overview
One of the most developed of rail trails. It actually consists of three separate trails, all with a sealed surface for their entire length!
The main "Mountain" section from Wangaratta to Bright and Beechworth is 97 km in length. It has moderate grades between Wangaratta and Bright and a significant grade from Everton up to historic Beechworth. The trail follows the picturesque Ovens Valley and has beautiful views of Mount Buffalo.
The "Murray" section from Rutherglen to Wahgunyah is 9 km in length. The trail traverses this famous wine producing area and is basically flat, ending on the Murray River.
The "Heritage" section from Wangaratta to Oxley is 9 km in length. The trail traverses farmland and is basically flat as it heads towards the gourmet region of Milawa.
Self guided & small group guided tours from 1 to 5 days with the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail specialists.
Tips
Wangaratta to Bright in Northern Victoria
North East Victoria, 250km from Melbourne
Sealed
Mostly flat but a steady climb to Beechworth
Photo credit: Rail Trails Australia. For more information and a location map please visit RailTrails Australia.
Map and GPX file
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
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 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.
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Northern Victoria or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
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.
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.Â
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.
Weather
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.