Bass Coast Rail Trail

Home
Nature & Outdoors
Walks
Bass Coast Rail Trail

23km | Woolamai - Wonthaggi | Feast on panoramic views of the dramatic Bass Strait along Victoria’s only coastal rail trail.

As Victoria’s only coastal rail trail, the Bass Coast Rail Trail sets high expectations, which are surpassed with an ovation-worthy ride at the meeting of land and sea. Vivid green hills seemingly tumble into the ocean thanks to dramatic cliffs and rocky headlands.

This ride can be done in either direction. The trail is a mostly flat shared pathway with two moderate climbs. Take care at road crossings on the busy Bass Highway.

Dogs and horses are permitted.

Distance: 23km

Grade: Level 1-2

Start: Woolamai Racecourse (Woolamai to Anderson is suitable for walkers and horse riders only)

Finish: Old Wonthaggi Railway Station, Murray St, Wonthaggi

Track: Generally smooth dirt or gravel track

Dogs: Welcome on lead

Bass Coast Rail Trail riders cycling on bikes in Kilcunda

Udder and Hoe Kilcunda couple out front of store

Kilcunda Ocean View Hotel couple eating on deck with ocean

State Coal Mine family in underground mine walking through a lit tunnel

Your journey along the Bass Coast Rail Trail

Kilcunda Trestle Bridge Bass Coast aerial view of the bridge and river

Start the ride from Anderson on your bike (or Woolamai if you’re on foot) with a scenic journey through bucolic farmland as the trail connects with the coast, then take a breather at Kilcunda. This pocket-sized beachside town is blessed with options for some good tucker thanks to delicatessen Udder & Hoe, famed cafe Kilcunda General Store and the iconic Killy Pub.

Make your way down to Shelley Beach, living up to its name thanks to millions of teeny shells, or while away a couple of hours at the tranquil Mouth of the Powlett River. You’re in for a treat as you head out of town with a crossing of the magnificent Kilcunda Trestle Bridge over Bourne Creek. Take a moment to admire the views toward rocky outcrops from the heritage-listed beauty.

Next you’ll pass the unmissable wind turbines of the Wonthaggi Wind Farm. These grand ladies create a renewable energy source and power more than 6,000 homes locally.

Continue on toward Wonthaggi. The bustling township has a thriving retail scene and a burgeoning cafe scene that has breathed new life into the town.

Celebrate Wonthaggi’s coal mining history at the State Coal Mine. The open air museum offers mine tours, trolley rides and interactive displays, plus walking tracks and picnic areas around the tranquil grounds.