Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the captivating 37km hike from Port Fairy to Warrnambool, a 2-day journey that's rated Grade 4 for difficulty. Begin at Regent St in Port Fairy and end at the Warrnambool foreshore promenade, trekking alongside the scenic Tower Hill State Game Reserve—an extinct volcano teeming with native wildlife. Remember, the trail between Port Fairy and Koroit doesn't allow horses and signage may be lacking at the Warrnambool end. Enjoy the unique terrain and views on this challenging Australian bushwalk.

Length:

37km

Duration:

2 days

Grade:

Style:

One Way

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Port Fairy

End: Warrnambool

Western Victoria

Victoria

Nearby town: Port Fairy

From state capital: 260km

Latitude: -38.38334002291732

Longitude: 142.23841304435618

Overview

Map

Gallery

Weather

Similar

Region

4,356 views

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

Horses are permitted beside the trail only between Commercial Road (or Penshurst/WarrnamboolRd), Koroit and Illowa, then down Illowa Rd to Millers Lane and on to Levys Point track. This means horses are not permitted between Port Fairy and Koroit, or along the Merri Creek to Warrnambool.

The trail starts at Regent St in Port Fairy and ends at the Warrnambool foreshore promenade.
After leaving Port Fairy it skirts the northern side of a 25,000 year old extinct volcano, now the Tower Hill State Game Reserve. The crater is home to native animals and has many walking tracks.
From the Highway to Warrnambool the trail does not follow the original alignment.
The signage for the trail is deficient at the Warrnambool end.

Illowa - Underpass on the Princes Hwy. Park in Lanes Lane

Warrnambool - The trail starts at the Breakwater but is not well signposted. Alternately start where the Merri Creek intersects with Roxburgh Close

Tips

Port Fairy to Warrnambool in Western Victoria

260km south west of Melbourne

Compacted earth, Coarse gravel, Fine gravel, Sealed

Flat and undulating

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

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file
Port Fairy - Warrnambool Rail Trail Walk (37km)

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Western Victoria.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Ararat, Ballarat, Hamilton, Horsham, Port Fairy, Stawell, Warrnambool

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Western Victoria? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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.

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.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

Reviews
Port Fairy - Warrnambool Rail Trail Walk (37km)

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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.

Acknowledgement of Country

Port fairy - warrnambool rail trail walk (37km)

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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Important info

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Port Fairy - Warrnambool Rail Trail Walk (37km)