Rail trails are shared-use paths recycled from abandoned railway corridors. They can be used for walking, cycling and horse riding.
Where are they?
There are now rail trails all around Australia and in other countries too. Rail trails link big and small country towns and meander through scenic countryside just as railways did in the past.
What are they like?
Most trails have a gravel or dirt surface suitable for walking, mountain bikes and horses. Some are sealed and are great for touring bikes too.
Following the route of the railways, they cut through hills, under roads, over embankments and across gullies and creeks. Apart from being great places to walk, cycle or horse ride, rail trails are linear conservation corridors protecting native plants and animals. They often link remnant vegetation in farming areas and contain valuable flora and fauna habitat. Wineries and other attractions are near many trails as well as B&B’s and other great places to stay.
Are the rails still there?
The rails are usually removed when a railway is closed, but remnants of the past such as railway cuttings and bridges still remain.
Map View Rail Trails
9 thoughts on “Rail Trails”
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Sadly NSW is the exception. Many people in NSW are working to convince the State Govt to develop just some of the 3100 klms of long dead rural rail routes into what could easily be some of the worlds best and most spectacular rail trails. But we need to convince the govt to act.
#nswtourism #ruraldevelopment
About to take my third rail trail trip to Victoria.
Catch up NSW. Not only tourist dollars but health benefits for your residents and voters.
Happy that you are doing this for “The Country”. Go cous111
Is there any in queensland?.
I believe so. Very soon I will be adding all rail trails to my site.
#greatsouthernrailtrail
Nicolas Russ
I think that we should all celebrate rail trails, I have many pleasant memories of of these gifts from times gone by.