Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail
Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail
Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail
4.5
About
The Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail is an iconic 39 km recreation trail for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. The trail follows the path of the historical railway line through the stunning Yarra Valley commencing at the rear of the Lilydale Railway Station and finishing in the Warburton township.Follow the 'Warburton Trail' through vineyards, beautiful mountain scenery, farmlands and forests. Cross the many restored bridges. Meander past remnants of the former station platforms and stop in at the original 1882 railway station, also known as the Upper Yarra Museum.The Rail Trail's gentle gradients make it ideal for all levels of fitness including families. Access to the trail is free for the public, however permits may be required for events.
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Ascott150
Melbourne, Australia1,368 contributions
Oct 2013 • Friends
The Warburton Bike Trail or Warby Trail (as it is known locally) is a phenomenal opportunity for anyone interested in riding bicycles through a wonderful scenic piece of the Australian landscape. It is a comfortable and non threatening experience. It has proved to be a safe and secure enviroment on the many rides that I have had.
Whether it is riding through peaceful vineyards, classic Australian country or bushland scenes or Australian farm environments that you want, the Warby trail has them all.
The Australian country scenes include views of rivers (calm and rapids), rolling hills and mountains, valleys and towns and villages (including classic pubs, homesteads and town main streets). The scenery is relaxing and enjoyable, and the domestic animal spotting whether parrots, other birds, kangaroos, wombats or echidnas (all seen on the trail), is enjoyable and non threatening.
Farm environments seen along the Warby trail include Fields of beef and dairy cows, sheep, horses, hay, grain and vegetables, shetland ponies, deer and emus (and even an ostrich).
As any decent trail should have, it includes many good cafe or coffee opportunities along the way. These are spread along the trail with strongly recommended examples at Mount Evelyn, Morrison on the Park, at Wandin, Yarra Valley Deli and Cafe, at Seville, Carriage Cafe, at Launching Place, the Home Hotel, at Yarra Junction, Amanda's Cafe and at Warburton, Cog Bike Cafe and Warburton Pantry. The trail includes numerous wineries nearby, including a number of Seville wineries, Killara and Bulong.
The Warby trail, as a converted old railway track, has only fairly gentle slopes and the trail meanders through the valleys rather than over the hills. It is 38 kilometres one way, with well staggered sections:
- Lilydale to Mount Evelyn - 6.9 km and the steepest incline from 102 metres over sea level at Lilydale to 230 metres over sea level at the high point of the trail at Mount Evelyn ;
- Mount Evelyn to Wandin - 5.4 km;
- Wandin to Seville - 3.4 km;
- Seville to Killara - 3.3 km;
- Killara to Woori Yallock - 4 km with Woori Yallock being the low point of the trail at 94 metres above sea level ;
- Woori Yallock to Launching Place - 6.4 km;
- Launching Place to Yarra Junction - 2.1 km;
- Yarra Junction to Millgrove - 5.2 km; and
- Millgrove to Warburton - 3.3 km and at 168 metres above sea level.
The trail is of good quality and well maintained, but it is not all sealed and has gravel for significant sections and some somewhat corrugated bridges at times. Hybrid or mountain bikes are therefore recommended as it is a bit rough for road bikes at times, though they are often seen on the trail.
It is not busy but has walkers, cyclists and horse riders regularly passing by as you meander through the countryside.
Having only tried overseas bike trails in Bordeau and Burgundy, it is difficult to compare the Warby trail internationally, but it is better than any other I have ridden in Australia or overseas for recreational country cyclists. We are very lucky to have the Warburton Rail Trail available to all.
Whether it is riding through peaceful vineyards, classic Australian country or bushland scenes or Australian farm environments that you want, the Warby trail has them all.
The Australian country scenes include views of rivers (calm and rapids), rolling hills and mountains, valleys and towns and villages (including classic pubs, homesteads and town main streets). The scenery is relaxing and enjoyable, and the domestic animal spotting whether parrots, other birds, kangaroos, wombats or echidnas (all seen on the trail), is enjoyable and non threatening.
Farm environments seen along the Warby trail include Fields of beef and dairy cows, sheep, horses, hay, grain and vegetables, shetland ponies, deer and emus (and even an ostrich).
As any decent trail should have, it includes many good cafe or coffee opportunities along the way. These are spread along the trail with strongly recommended examples at Mount Evelyn, Morrison on the Park, at Wandin, Yarra Valley Deli and Cafe, at Seville, Carriage Cafe, at Launching Place, the Home Hotel, at Yarra Junction, Amanda's Cafe and at Warburton, Cog Bike Cafe and Warburton Pantry. The trail includes numerous wineries nearby, including a number of Seville wineries, Killara and Bulong.
The Warby trail, as a converted old railway track, has only fairly gentle slopes and the trail meanders through the valleys rather than over the hills. It is 38 kilometres one way, with well staggered sections:
- Lilydale to Mount Evelyn - 6.9 km and the steepest incline from 102 metres over sea level at Lilydale to 230 metres over sea level at the high point of the trail at Mount Evelyn ;
- Mount Evelyn to Wandin - 5.4 km;
- Wandin to Seville - 3.4 km;
- Seville to Killara - 3.3 km;
- Killara to Woori Yallock - 4 km with Woori Yallock being the low point of the trail at 94 metres above sea level ;
- Woori Yallock to Launching Place - 6.4 km;
- Launching Place to Yarra Junction - 2.1 km;
- Yarra Junction to Millgrove - 5.2 km; and
- Millgrove to Warburton - 3.3 km and at 168 metres above sea level.
The trail is of good quality and well maintained, but it is not all sealed and has gravel for significant sections and some somewhat corrugated bridges at times. Hybrid or mountain bikes are therefore recommended as it is a bit rough for road bikes at times, though they are often seen on the trail.
It is not busy but has walkers, cyclists and horse riders regularly passing by as you meander through the countryside.
Having only tried overseas bike trails in Bordeau and Burgundy, it is difficult to compare the Warby trail internationally, but it is better than any other I have ridden in Australia or overseas for recreational country cyclists. We are very lucky to have the Warburton Rail Trail available to all.
Written 14 October 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for this great review and information.
Written 14 October 2013
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Steven C
Melbourne, Australia24 contributions
Aug 2019 • Solo
About 40km gravel ride Lilydale to Warburton. Fairly flat apart from a bit of a climb to Mt Evelyn. A few cafes and easy access to local shops. Lots of water fountains.
Written 11 August 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jkl1965
Melbourne, Australia51 contributions
Nov 2016 • Solo
I had a wonderful afternoon a few days ago riding my bike from Mt Evelyn to Yarra Junction and back. The track is excellently maintained and hikers and riders seem to get on well :)
However, one thing surprised me though ( ... and hopefully people from the local council will read this ... ) ... there are no public toilets on the main key points of the track between Mt Evelyn and Yarra Junction (nearly 25 kms!!!). Yes, you can go off the track and walk 500 meters or so to public toilets in the little townships you ride or walk past but next to the track itself there are none! This in my opinion could be improved and would make the whole trail experience a 5 out of 5!!! :)
However, one thing surprised me though ( ... and hopefully people from the local council will read this ... ) ... there are no public toilets on the main key points of the track between Mt Evelyn and Yarra Junction (nearly 25 kms!!!). Yes, you can go off the track and walk 500 meters or so to public toilets in the little townships you ride or walk past but next to the track itself there are none! This in my opinion could be improved and would make the whole trail experience a 5 out of 5!!! :)
Written 5 November 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Adam J
8 contributions
Sept 2016 • Solo
This is a good track for everyone. Walkers riders and families with kids.
There are a few problems if you are a rider or just walking.
People with dogs who decide to not have them on a lead. Owners who think they have full control of their dog have no idea or care for other walkers or riders.
Riding from Mt Evelyn to Lilydale has now become dodge the dog.
There are a few problems if you are a rider or just walking.
People with dogs who decide to not have them on a lead. Owners who think they have full control of their dog have no idea or care for other walkers or riders.
Riding from Mt Evelyn to Lilydale has now become dodge the dog.
Written 13 September 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
cocpaan
14 contributions
July 2013
Completed the whole journey on a great winters day. Had previously read reviews that stated that the ride was reasonably flat, and short. Although most of the trail was flat- the hills around Mt Evelyn were a killer. Our journey was 7 hours all together riding at a leisurely pace. We aren't from the area and began the ride at 11.30AM, which resulted in a very dark and scary trip home! Despite all of this the Lilydale to Warby trail is the prettiest track I've ever ridden on. Such a great day out!
Written 16 July 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
platypus150
Melbourne, Australia32,015 contributions
May 2018 • Friends
We are not fit walkers, carrying various injuries, but we really wanted to walk the Trail. We have resolved to do it in parts. The local bus services have routes between Lilydale and Warburton and also to Mt Evelyn. To a large degree the roads shadow the railway route, so you can walk between settlements from bus stop to bus stop. Last time we walked the Lilydale end, which is a big loop around the town. So this time we decided to bus to Mt Evelyn (#697) and then walk to Wandin North; bussing back to Lilydale (#638) from there. All this was Zone 2 on our Myki, so no additional charge. The walk from Mt Evelyn was mostly down hill and in a forested area. It gradually became Mountain Ash and the bird life increased to parrots and small woodland birds. When we emerged near the old Wandin station, we were on a bus stop and the hourly bus was only 6 minutes away. We only had to walk about 5km. No facilities along the trail, so if you need food, drink, toilets you can leave the Trail for local shops at the settlements you pass through.
Written 5 May 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your comments. We hope you continue to return and use the trail.
Written 2 August 2018
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
GeelongPhantom
Geelong37 contributions
Jan 2018 • Solo
The rail trail is brilliant. I did the Lilydale to Warburton to Lilydale trek (80km), but there is a smaller section of this trail suitable for anyone. Pack plenty of food/drink so you can stop anywhere to enjoy the view.
Written 21 January 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
styloe
SGP4 contributions
Apr 2014 • Friends
Very scenic countryside route. We cycled from Warburton to Lilydale, one way (38km).
Generally easy cycling, except the last 10km, which is a long slope approaching Mt Evelyn.
For family, it'll be easier if you can start your ride in middle of the trail, as elevation is a mild "V" shape.
We took around 4 hrs to complete, including lunch and crashes. :-P
Generally easy cycling, except the last 10km, which is a long slope approaching Mt Evelyn.
For family, it'll be easier if you can start your ride in middle of the trail, as elevation is a mild "V" shape.
We took around 4 hrs to complete, including lunch and crashes. :-P
Written 1 May 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Victorianlad
Melbourne, Australia17,463 contributions
I have only walked small sections of this terrific outer suburban to country rail trail that is accessible by suburban train from Flinders Street railway station in Melbourne to Lilydale - a trip of about 55 minutes.
Save for a missing section at the start that was commandeered by a Catholic college, the trail is complete and goes through some pleasant country.
It is as attractive to walk as it presumably is to cycle.
Some highlights include pleasant towns such as Yarra Junction and Wandin.
There are buses available along the route to take you back to Lilydale station: on the outer part of the bus route closer to Warburton, Melbourne's Metcards are not valid but the additional fare is not much.
Save for a missing section at the start that was commandeered by a Catholic college, the trail is complete and goes through some pleasant country.
It is as attractive to walk as it presumably is to cycle.
Some highlights include pleasant towns such as Yarra Junction and Wandin.
There are buses available along the route to take you back to Lilydale station: on the outer part of the bus route closer to Warburton, Melbourne's Metcards are not valid but the additional fare is not much.
Written 24 July 2009
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
steve B
Lilydale, Australia19 contributions
May 2019 • Friends
We have done hhis track many times on foot some of the way and ridden on bikes all of the way, but mainly we just ride sections. The track being the old railway line is a slow gradient. It is accessible from many points along it with designated places for cars. Why we do sections is the trail is about 40 km so we would normally on ride 20 km say from Work yallock to Warburton , have s coffee and breakfast anc then ride back. There are various sections that on s bike you seem to pedal uphill alo but walking you do not notice. There are many places on and off the trail to stop and buy z drink etc. the trail is well maintained with good phone coverage all the way. There are also safety markets along the way so if in trouble you can tell where you are. A beautiful part of the world.
Written 12 May 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I want to horse ride this trail - where’s the best start point I can park a horse truck?
Written 29 December 2020
What is the walking distance between lily dale station and the next town? Can we catch a bus back from another town? I’m wanting to take my client who is deaf and blind who loves walking.
Written 13 October 2019
It’s about 5km from Lilydale to Mt Evelyn. It’s all slightly uphill but not too steep.
There are busses from Mt Evelyn to Lilydale.
Written 14 October 2019
I want to ride the full trail from lilydale to Warburton and was wondering if it is recommended to use my road bike.
Written 1 October 2019
Sure.....great path....road bike should do the job with ease
Written 2 October 2019
I'm wanting to ride the trail starting at Wandin or Seville and leave my car overnight there (staying the night in Warby) and then return the next day. Is there anywhere safe to park, even in Mount Evelyn?
Written 18 October 2017
I usually park near the police station. Talk to the police for guidance, and I am good to go. Our bush walking club even park for a few days on long walks. Unless you have a nice glaring flashy car! Enjoy our beautiful trails!
Written 19 October 2017
Hello, I am going to do this trail in the upcoming long weekend and am wondering, because I've never been or even seen it, how hard would it be to pull a trailer with my dog in it plus camping gear? I am of moderate fitness, I ride around 20ks a day to work and back and on the weekends I ride too but I've never actually ridden with a trailer but it may be my only option as I can't get anyone to look after my dog so I can go away for the weekend! Thanks everyone in advance.
Written 2 March 2017
Track is wide so towing a bike trailer shoud be fine.
There are some steeper hills at the lilydale end that yu may have to push a bike with trailer.
Written 16 March 2017
Are there any interesting places to stop along the trail such as wineries without having to go too far off the track?
Written 1 January 2017
hi There, are you going all the way from Lilydale to Warburton?
Written 3 January 2017
I would like to walk from Lilydale to Warburton over a few days, roughly 10 to 20km a day. Any suggestions for accomm options in towns alomg the way?
Written 1 January 2017
you can also try websites like visitwarburton
good luck - there are many small b&b's and pedal pick up small business on facebook
Written 3 January 2017
I'm planning a weekend away riding the Lilydale to Warburton rail trail- are there any wineries close by the trail that we could visit along the way??
Written 5 October 2015
We want to ride one way, from Warburton to Lilydale. Is there a way to get riders and bikes back to Warburton rather than have to do a car shuffle before and after?
Written 9 March 2015
You can try Yarra Valley Cycles in Lilydale or Cog Bike Cafe in Warburton. They maybe able to advise. I hope this helps.
Written 10 March 2015
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