Great Southern Rail Trail

Stretching 71 kilometres from Leongatha to Yarram through the rolling green hills of South Gippsland, the Great Southern Rail Trail is one of Victoria's most rewarding rail-trail experiences. Following the old Great Southern Railway line, this sealed, mostly flat path winds through lush dairy country, cool temperate rainforest remnants, and past historic timber towns. Whether you're cycling, walking, or horse-riding, the trail offers a gentle, immersive journey into the region's rural heritage and natural beauty. The air smells of eucalyptus and fresh-cut grass, and the only sounds are birdsong and the crunch of tyres on gravel. It's a perfect slow-travel adventure for families, weekend cyclists, and anyone craving a dose of serene Australian countryside.

Highlights & What to See

• Leongatha to Koonwarra section – The most popular stretch, with a sealed surface that passes the Koonwarra Village, home to a popular café and the Koonwarra Farmers' Market (held on the first Saturday of the month).
• Old railway bridges and trestles – Several restored timber bridges offer photogenic views over creeks and farmland, especially near the town of Meeniyan.
• Tarwin River valley – A scenic lowland section where the trail hugs the river, with abundant birdlife and shady rest stops.
• Foster township – A historic gold-mining town with well-preserved 19th-century buildings, a quirky museum, and the popular Foster Brewery for a post-ride ale.
• Toora and the Agnes River – The trail passes through the charming town of Toora, with its restored railway station, and then crosses the Agnes River estuary, a great spot for a picnic.
• Yarram terminus – The eastern end of the trail, Yarram is a friendly town with accommodation, pubs, and the Yarram Heritage Walk showcasing local history.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most cyclists complete the entire 71-kilometre trail in two days, breaking the journey overnight in Foster or Toora. Day-trippers often tackle the 27-kilometre Leongatha–Foster stretch, which offers the best scenery and café stops. Allow 3–4 hours for a one-way ride on that section, or 6–8 hours for a leisurely full-day pedal with plenty of breaks. Walkers can enjoy shorter sections, such as the 10-kilometre Koonwarra–Meeniyan loop, as a half-day outing. The trail is well signposted and has several access points, so you can easily tailor your distance.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wilsons Promontory National Park – Just a 40-minute drive south of Foster, Victoria's southernmost point offers spectacular coastal walks, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife.
• Tarwin Lower & Venus Bay – A laid-back coastal area with surf beaches, the mouth of the Tarwin River, and excellent fishing and camping spots.
• Koonwarra Village – Already on the trail, but worth a dedicated stop for its artisan shops, gallery, and the famous Koonwarra Store café.
• Walkerville & Waratah Bay – Quiet coastal hamlets with sheltered beaches and rock pools, ideal for a relaxing afternoon after a ride.
• South Gippsland wine region – Scattered vineyards near Leongatha and Koonwarra produce cool-climate wines; several cellar doors welcome visitors.

Please check official sources for current details.