By Kath Gannaway
IT MAY be a bridge too far to say that the many bridges along the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail are a key feature of the trail experience.
But, honestly, who doesn’t get a buzz from a bit of elevation!
Impressive bridges book-end the 40 kilometre trail that follows the historical rail line, as the name suggests, starting at Lilydale railway station and finishing in the heart of Warburton.
Designed for walkers, cyclists and horse-riders, it is recognised as one of Victoria’s great recreational trails.
With an easy gradient for the majority of the trail, and with lots of townships along the way making it easy to plan the ride in stages, it has wide appeal for all ages and abilities.
There’s a real sense of adventure as you approach the first bridge, towering over the Maroondah Highway at Lilydale.
Opened in 2011, the 90-metre long, architecturally designed steel bridge incorporates elements of previous railway bridges and reflects its role as a gateway to the Yarra Valley and the rail trail.
Importantly, it not only looks spectacular, it makes for a safe crossing of the busy highway.
The next bridge is close by, but technically, it’s only a bridge if you are driving over the trail on Hereford Road in Mount Evelyn. For trail users, it’s actually a tunnel! Lined with corrugated iron in the style of the war-time Nissan huts, it’s popular with kids who find it hard to resist turning around to ride through it time and again.
Just be careful not to tire the little tackers out too early!
You’ll cross several bridges between Mount Evelyn and Seville before you get to the Woori Yallock Viaduct which stretches across the Woori Yallock Creek and the low-lying swamp that is a haven for birdlife.
Following the trail through vineyards, farmlands and bushland the trail draws you to the magnificent mountain scenery that circles the Yarra Valley and on to Warburton.
As you come into Warburton, the old railway bridge over Scotchman’s Creek Road is the introduction to the town as you make your way towards the official trail end.
The bridge story doesn’t finish there however. Warburton is famous for its six bridges over the Yarra River and connecting the Yarra River walking tracks on either side of the iconic river.
Starting at the Mayer Bridge you can weave your way over the Swing Bridge, on to the Brisbane Bridge, Bramich Footbridge to the Redwood Bridge and finally the Signs Bridge.
For visitors the starting point of the trail at Lilydale railway station makes it a great option for those wanting to use public transport and with bike hire now available both in Lilydale and at Warburton, cycling the trail is even easier.
For detailed information about the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail visit www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au and search ‘rail trail’
