The Old Beechy Rail Trail is a 45km interpretative walking/cycling trail, following much of the original path of the narrow gauge railway “The Beechy” which ran from 1902 until 1962.
The trail runs through both public and private land – please respect private property and adhere to the Code of Conduct.
Where Trail runs between Colac and Beech Forrest, 2 hours west of Melbourne.
Distance 45km trail, which can also be completed in short sections and in either direction.
Gradient Some gentle slopes and undulating trail to steep up and down hill sections.
Surface Large sections of purpose-built trail with compacted gravel, short sections of heavy gravel on dirt roads and some sealed roads.
Suitable Trail suitable for mountain bikes and walkers (dogs are allowed on a leash). Some sections of the trail suitable for beginners and families, some only suitable for intermediate to advanced riders. The brochure provides more detail.
Gates Timber chicanes are found along the trail, which may restrict bikes with trailers or three-wheelers. Keys can be arranged through Colac Otway Shire, ph 5232 9400 during business hours.
Signage Is provided right along the trail, but keep your eye out, particularly for directions on and off the gravel road sections.
The Beechy Train A 12 seater ‘train’ vehicle will run return journeys from Gellibrand to Beech Forest infrequently between December 2006 and April 2007. The not-for-profit train is for use by people unable to walk or cycle. For details on running times, contact Chris Smith on 03 5235 1255.
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For Your Safety
Vehicles On any given day you may meet emergency, maintenance or landowners vehicles on the trail.Traffic Cyclists and hikers should take care on all local roads and crossings, particularly on the section of the Old Colac-Beech Forest Road, as large log trucks can frequent this road between November and April.Total Fire Ban Days Users should carefully consider whether or not to undertake the trail on these days.
Facilities
Colac, Gellibrand and Beech Forest are the towns along the trail. All offer accommodation and meals (meal times at the hotels in Gellibrand and Beech Forest can vary.Bike hire and accessories are available in Colac.
Popular rides
As the trail is linear, a car shuffle is required if you don’t wish to return via the same path. Check gradients carefully when making your decision, as the trail involves a number of inclines.Gellibrand makes a good starting point for those not wishing to arrange a car shuffle or beginner riders. Head south towards Beech Forest, and you will find a 6.3km uphill section on purpose built trail. Turn around and retrace your steps. Pass the remains of a rail bridge.Barongarook Hall to the Birnam Station Picnic Area makes an easy 3.5km downhill ride suitable for families and beginners. A car shuffle will be required if you don’t wish to head back uphill.A longer downhill section runs from Beech Forest (start at the public toilet block) to Gellibrand. You may choose to begin at Dinmont on the Old Colac-Beech Forest Road, where the purpose-built trail begins. This will avoid 4.5km on gravel road. There is a short 1km section back on the gravel road in the middle of this ride, but otherwise it is all on purpose built track. A car shuffle is required.Suggested loop rides for more advanced cyclists, comfortable on major sealed roads are available atBicycle Victoria's website.
More Information ...
For a map of the trail and more information, please download the brochure via the links pages 1&2 | pages 3&4 | (longer download time may be evident for dial up internet connections) or contact or visit;Colac Visitor Information Centre
Cnr Murray & Queen Sts
Ph 03 5231 3730
Email: colacvic@colacotway.vic.gov.au
Open daily 9am-5pm (closed Christmas Day) |
