Where to Ride... Ballarat - Skipton Rail Trail

While there are plenty of bike riding options around Ballarat, the Rail Trail is a good choice if you want to ride off-road and cover a reasonable distance. It is also pretty accessible to many types of bikes because the fine gravel surface is good and it is generally well maintained. With a mix of open paddocks and forests (particularly around Linton) and occasional random interactions with wildlife, the Rail Trail is always a nice ride.

Where Are the Trains?

The Rail Trail was a branch line running south west from Ballarat to the to town of Skipton. The line's first section opened in 1883 and the whole route finally closed in 1986. Although the trains are long gone, there are plenty of glimpses of the old tracks, former stations and train infrastructure along the way. Historical signs at key parts give a glimpse of how the towns along the route used the rail line, in the era before cars.

Nimmons Bridge

Starting from...

From central Ballarat, head to Lake Wendouree. From the north side of the Lake, head one street away from the Lakeside, on to Gregory Street, cross Gillies Street and continue on Gregory Street West bike path. Follow the Rail Trail signs from there, once you pass the Mars chocolate factory and cross the Ring Road, it starts to get more scenic.

Are Me and My Bike Up to it?

As mentioned, much of the trail is suitable for most bikes. Most road bikes with wider (32mm +) tyres, gravel bikes, hybrids and mountain bikes would all be fine on the rail trail. There are no steep hills (trains didn't like steep hills) and you do not need to be particularly skilful to ride it.

Linton Facilities

Fuelled By Cake

There are some nicely positioned stop-off points for food and a break. The trail also passes some water refill taps at Haddon, Smythesdale, Scarsdale and Linton.

In the Sticks - Avalon Nursery, Haddon - approx'15k from Ballarat

Through the Gate - Glenelg Highway, Smythesdale - approx' 25k from Ballarat

Linton Take Away - Glenelg Highway, Linton - approx' 40k from Ballarat

Bluestone Bubbles & Banter Cafe - Montgomery Street, Skipton approx 60k from Ballarat

But, What If...

There are bike fix stations equipped with a stand, basic tools and a pump. These are at Haddon, Scarsdale and Linton. However, if you take some basic tools (tyre levers, spare tube, mini-pump, allen keys) you should be covered for most eventualities. If your bike has been left in the shed for years, book in for a service before you head out.

Bike Fix Station - Scarsdale

Watch Out For Surprises...

Magpie Swooping - August to November

Early Summer Snakes - October to December

Also Watch Out For...

Wedge Tailed Eagles

Kangaroos

Bob-Tail Lizards

Echidnas

Rail Trail - Tips

• Keep Left - While there are no 'rules', as such, most people on bikes keep left, like on a regular road.

• Let other people know you are about to pass them, ring your bell, say g'day, etc, try not to surprise people on foot, or their dogs. If they are wearing headphones and can't hear, just give them a wide birth.

• Take extra care around horses.

• Watch out for road crossings.

• Take essentials, such as drinks, sunscreen, spare tube.

Wedge Tailed Eagle

Nimmons Bridge