Immerse yourself in history and nature on the Reids Tramline Walk. This moderately challenging 6km loop trail in Yarra State Forest takes you on a journey through time and wilderness. Explore the charming town of Powelltown before following the path of a historic tramline used to haul timber. Lush rainforest surrounds the trail, offering a glimpse into the area's rich past.
Walk alongside remnants of the old tramline and discover relics of the Powelltown sawmill. Immerse yourself in the beauty of towering mountain ash forests and alongside the refreshing Little Yarra River. The trail features a steady climb that will get your heart pumping, followed by a scenic descent back to the carpark.
- Be prepared for leeches, common on this trail. Pack insect repellent or your preferred leech removal method.
- Due to the loop nature, you can choose your preferred starting point.
- Trailhead: Reids Tramline Carpark
Total distance: 5982 m
Max elevation: 376 m
Min elevation: 193 m
Total climbing: 228 m
Total descent: -229 m
Download file:
Reids%20Tramline.gpx
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Heathcote, Warburton, Yarra Junction, Launching Place, Woori Yallock
If you are coming from the West the Reids Tramline carpark is just as you enter Powelltown on your left. There is a big log on a train trailer near the road. Keep an eye out for that. If you reach the pub/shop the you have gone too far.
Track grade
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
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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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.
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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.
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
1 Review on “Reids Tramline Hike (6km)”
Beautiful walk through magnificent rainforest. Some recent back burning (April 2024) made for some interesting scenery. A fairly easy walk to turn around in a short day from Melbourne.