Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the charm of Victoria's mountain countryside with a moderate 8.5km hike from Henry Street, Erica to historic Walhalla. The trail, nestled in the Walhalla Historic Area, promises an immersive experience through tall forests, alongside the meandering Thomson River, and past an old mining area. Only 165km from the city, this one-way trail is perfect for a day trip, offering a unique peek into Victoria's gold-mining past and stunning natural beauty. Don't forget to check out the historic railway bridge at Thomson!

Length:

8.5km

Duration:

3 hrs

Grade:

Style:

One Way

Max elevation: 437m

Min elevation: 233m

Total Ascent: 183m

Start: Henry Street, Erica

End: Walhalla

Walhalla Historic Area

Victoria

Nearby town: Erica

From state capital: 165km

Latitude: -37.97644748

Longitude: 146.37708842754367

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Hike overview

A short rail trail in beautiful mountain countryside, featuring tall forests and the meandering Thomson River. An old mining area with the historic village of Walhalla close by. Walk or cycle through steep cuttings with many twists and turns along the old railway formation.

Gold was discovered at Walhalla in 1863, and created an impetus to build a railway. A campaign started in the 1880's, but it wasn't until 1910 that a narrow guage line was built from Moe to Walhalla. However by the time the line was finished, the gold had started to peter out, and the miners used the railway to leave the area. The line was closed in stages, and the final section from Moe to Erica was closed in 1954.

The wonderful concrete and steel bridge at Thomson was almost used by the army for demolition training, but a campaign by the Walhalla Goldfields Railway group finally succeeded in overturning that decision. The railway is open between Thomson and Walhalla with a collection of completely restored rolling stock, and bikes can be carried on board.

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Walk map and GPX file
Walhalla Goldfields Rail Trail Walk (8.5km)

Total distance: 8408 m
Max elevation: 437 m
Min elevation: 233 m
Total climbing: 183 m
Total descent: -345 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Walhalla Historic Area.

Travel via Monash Freeway (M1) and Princes Highway (A1) to the Moe turn off and follow the signs to Erica approximately 170 km east of Melbourne.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Erica, Moe, Moondarra, Rawson, Thomson, Thomson Dam, Tyers, Walhalla

About the region

Walhalla, a rich gold producer for 50 years, is a remote and picturesque mountain township. It is hard to imagine a more difficult site for a town than the steep, narrow valley of Stringers Creek as it winds down through the dense forests of the Baws Baws. Yet in its heyday, between 1880 and 1895, more than 4000 people lived there. The town is the start of the 650 km Australian Alps Walking Track to the ACT. But most people come to discover the remnants of a community that defied a forbidding environment in its quest for gold. The best way to see the town is on foot.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Walhalla Historic Area? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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.

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

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Walhalla Goldfields Rail Trail Walk (8.5km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Walhalla goldfields rail trail walk (8. 5km)

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

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Walhalla Goldfields Rail Trail Walk (8.5km)