His name is Pete. By closing this banner or browsing this site you agree to the use of cookies and the terms outlined in the Privacy andCookiepolicies. Cazz Redding, a town . Comfortable and casual in the ideal location for a family, right on the trail. Arriving at midday, we pulled up at the Harrietville Hotel hungry and welcoming our rest. The alignment follows a cleared power line easement for the first 300m, then leaves the power line easement and stays close to the Ovens river all the way to Snowy Creek. Depart now 4:14 am. Favourite route. There are so many more experiences, walks, rides, gourmet food, wine and spirit offerings, as well as incredible accommodation options and things to do in Bright and beyond. The growth in ongoing economic activity will benefit existing businesses along the route, as well as stimulate the development of new businesses in Harrietville, broadening its appeal as a tourism destination and improving the resilience of the local tourism industry. Flocks of synchronized fairy-wrens darted in between undergrowth almost as if riding a wave and paddocks of horses, cows, goats, alpacas, and sheep all had our attention and awe. To Melbourne. This section follows the Ovens River by reclaiming a section of forest previously inundated by blackberry and willow. The Myrtleford Cycle Centre, located in the centre of town just off the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail, can assist you with bicycle sales, repairs and servicing, gear and bicycle hire. Day trips from Harrietville or Bright. Situated by Lake Sambell, the park has easy access to the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail and many walking tracks. 2021 Tourism North East | Editorial Policy | Privacy and Cookie Policies| Feedback | Media, Bright to Harrietville Great Valley Trail. Construction of the rail trail began at Bright in 1993, and finished in 2002 with the opening of sections to Wangaratta and Beechworth. For more about the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail, read Kerri's article about the section between Beechworth and Everton. The trail is a 26km sealed, family friendly trail that connects Bright to Harrietville. Later, were serenaded by a kookaburra. You chat for a while about things to do in Bright and soon you realise the day is escaping and you wont have time to keep riding toward Myrtleford. A family-friendly bike trail from Bright to Harrietville has opened extending the Murray to Mountains rail trail and we were keen to test it out with our family - dog included- to see just how friendly it was. The Great Valley Trail project will deliver 16 kilometres of family friendly shared trail, completing a 27 kilometre link between Harrietville and Bright, and extending the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail to the base of the Alps. That has set your mouth watering. The trail follows the Ovens River and explores the beautiful valley between Bright and Harrietville. https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bright_railway_line&oldid=1139525896, Closed regional railway lines in Victoria (Australia), All Wikipedia articles written in Australian English, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 15 February 2023, at 15:59. Like many companies, Tourism North East uses cookies and other technologies, some of which are essential to make this website work. This has been a large, complex project and wouldn't be where it is now without the continued support from the community, partner land managers and statutory authorities. The mountains provide dramatic backdrops to any walk in Bright and surrounds. The Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail is the perfect way to discover the diverse countryside of the North East Victoria, from natural bushland to open farmland . Youd think the town got its name from the spectacular arboreal colour it displays every autumn, but it was in fact named for John Bright, a notable 19th-century British orator hes said to have popularised the phrase to flog a dead horse who never visited the place. This trail is great for hiking, running, and walking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. We pay our respect to their Elders, past, present and emerging. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 23 min to complete. Follow the rail trail from the centre of Bright . The 27-kilometre section between the beautiful town of Bright and the quirky village of Harrietville at the foot of the Australian Alps has been sealed . as a local history museum. Bright to Harrietville by bus The bus journey time between Bright and Harrietville is around 25 min and covers a distance of around 24 km. You jump off briefly to cross the Great Alpine Road (one of the few road crossings along the trail) and then cruise down the back way past the golf course and over a long bridge high above the Ovens River, where stopping to stare at the running water is mandatory. Ride or Walk the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail. The triumph of completing the Great Valley Trail needs to be celebrated. Carry dog poo bags and clean up after your dog. 84 trails with 1,604 photos Did you hear the guy in the store say you can ride all the way from Harrietville to Wangaratta on this path, or even up to Beechworth and Yackandandah? Get the latest travel news, reviews, offers and more, direct to your inbox. The Great Valley Trail project is brand new - 16 kilometres of family friendly shared trail, completing a 27 kilometre link between Harrietville and Bright, and extending the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail to the base of the Alps. The head contractor on the project, North East Civil Construction, has worked hard through some extremely wet weather to get this project opened and we thank them for their efforts! Link into the 7 peaks ride. Youve got your copy of the Bright & Surrounds Cycle Guide and, having already ridden the Bright to Wandi Shared Path, decide to ride to Porepunkah on the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail, and maybe even the Great Valley Trail if youre feeling up to it. And huge bathrooms with separate bath and shower. Recently serviced Enduro/All mountain Small 29" Wheels Carbon fibre Rear travel 150mm Rear shock -fox float Scott twinlock Fork - Fox 34 Float Performance Air Fork travel - 150mm SRAM NX eagle groupset Renthal Fatbars 20mm rises Shimano MT520 Brakeset If you . Organised by the Friends of the Great Victorian Rail Trail (GVRT), the morning's ride is expected to attract . PHOTO: Anita Coia Id:23174 BRIGHT is expected to, yet again, swell by thousands of people this weekend as tourists flock to the town to celebrate the Easter holidays. The newly established section, approx. Tell us by submitting the feedback form. Follow the rail trail from the center of Bright towards the Tawonga Gap turnoff andt then wind your way through eucalypts and our spectacular valley to arrive in Harrietville where you can find refreshments. Once the trail leaves the existing vehicle track, it enters ground which has recently reclaimed through blackberry and willow removal. Hiking and Biking transfers. - Alpine Perennials, Harrietville. Generous covered luggage storage perfect for large groups with all provisions and ski gear. From farmers markets to flea markets, here's when and were you'll find them. The 27-kilometre trail extends the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail to the base of the Alps. We would love to hear what you think about the website. Over 100kms of sealed off road trail links the popular towns of Wangaratta, Beechworth, Rutherglen, Bright, Myrtleford and Yackandandah. GPX Download. Tickets cost $2 - $3 and the journey takes 25 min. From Bright there are dozens of great day-trips to places like Beechworth, Harrietville, Mt Hotham, Falls Creek & Dinner Plain just to mention a few. Whilst we shared the trail with very few other riders or runners this day, the animal encounters were aplenty. Three of the four bridges on the trail(SnowyCreek, Ovens River at Freeburgh and Smoko Creek bridges) will be in place during November. The 31 km extension of the rail trail from Beechworth to Yackandandah is scheduled to open mid 2022. The majestic snow-capped mountains beyond the farmland create an epic backdrop for our ride. Cycling the Bright to Harrietville Cycle Trail in March 2022. The trail will also provide a connection between the Alpine Shirescommunities of Germantown, Freeburgh, Smoko and Harrietville. Follow the rail trail from the centre of Bright towards the Tawonga Gap turnoff, where the new trail begins. The Great Victorian Rail Trail is Australia's longest continuous rail trail, with Victoria's longest rail trail tunnel at Cheviot. The trail follows the Ovens River and explores the beautiful valley between Bright and Harrietville. Other operators. GPX Download. A few kilometres from Bright with Miss 12s legs tiring we slowed our pace and rolled into town with little effort. Get to know this 26.2-km point-to-point trail near Bright, Victoria. The Murray to Mountains Rail Trail follows an old train line between Wangaratta and Bright, with arms extending to Beechworth, Milawa and Wandiligong over 110km of sealed path. Myrtleford's Mosaic Trail follows a sealed shared path alongside the Ovens River, also known as the Ovens River Loop ride. Along the ride (no matter which leg you choose) youll savour some of Australias finest. Begins atthe end of the existing trail at Tawonga Gap Road. Our free digital maps provide all the information, photos and inspiration you need to explore Victoria's High Country on foot. Rail Trail Cafe. We pay our respect to their Elders, past, present and emerging. For bike maintenance and repairs find a bike station on the corner of Great Alpine Road and Feathertop Track at the Harrietville Hotel Motel. But four legs can be better than two, so a day-long or multi-day horse trek is a great alternative. The fourth bridge(overStony Creek) will be built during December. The future looks even brighter. You pass the Bright Museum at the Old Railway Station and head up an avenue of trees adorned with candle-like purple flowers. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Bright to Porepunkah Rail Trail (6km sealed track, one-way or 12km . Race Report - The Harvest Run, Healesville The trail will be built around the remaining significant vegetation on the riverbank and through the river flats within the area. Kerri has also recently completed the Camperdown to Timboon Rail Trail. You can also go paddle boarding or canoeing on the lakes, he says. The trail then crossed the bridge at Germantown and ran along the other side of the Ovens River under the canopy of the eucalypts and away from the hustle and bustle of busy Bright in the peak winter season. I cant believe theres over 150km of connecting bike path out here, you shout over your shoulder to the others who are laughing along behind you. 1. The trail does not share the campground roads through this section. Via Bright, Harrietville, Hotham Snowball Express : Melbourne to Dinner Plain (snow season only) Via Southern Cross station, Melbourne Airport, Wangaratta station, Myrtleford, Bright, Harrietville, Mount Hotham Hotham Bus : by AIR. The path crosses Miley Lane, and goes past the existing toilet block at the campground. Public Transport Victoria operates a bus from Pioneer Park/Great Alpine Rd to Alpine Hotel/Anderson St twice a week. For bike maintenance and repairs find a bike station on the corner of Great Alpine Road and Feathertop Track at the Harrietville Hotel Motel. By closing this banner, scrolling this page or continuing to browse otherwise, you agree to the use of cookies and the terms outlined in the Privacy andCookiepolicies. The wind was cool on our faces, and the river full of movement and energy, felt alive as we rode alongside it. Dysons Wangaratta. Signage, crossing treatments, tidy up works etc. This leg is called the Great Valley Trail, and thats a clue to its benevolent nature. The whole network of trails stretch more than 100km from Wangaratta to Bright, with a couple of extensions connecting the trail to Beechworth, Milawa, and Harrietville. There are only nine units surrounded by garden. We recognise the ancient and continuing presence of the First Peoples on these lands and their important role as caretakers of these Countries. RETURNING on Sunday, March 13 is 'Tour de Trail', a family friendly bike ride along the Great Victorian Rail Trail. Amanda, Shan, Girls & Ziggy hit the trails for adventure Where: Bright is 320km North-East of Melbourne in Victoria, a popular Alpine Region, and gateway to Mt Hotham Distance: 55km . All the best events happening in your state this March, The best restaurants to try around Australia right now, A drool-worthy guide to Australias best cheese toasties, The best high teas in hotels around Australia, All the best things happening in your state this April, Top 10 Aussie food and wine festivals youve never heard of. Works are progressing well on the Great Valley Trail. . Works will take 3-4 weeks to complete(weatherdependent). This was the biggest bucket-dredge gold mine in the southern hemisphere in the 1940s and 50s, but is now a spectacular swimming hole surrounded by forest and mountains both are reflected in the cool water with a shady picnic area and a 20-minute walking loop. Browse through or download the walks and trails brochures below that suit your style of walking. The Upper Ovens Valley includes Bright and Porepunkah, but also the historic gold mining towns of Wandiligong and Harrietville are nearby. Check out this 16.3-mile point-to-point trail near Bright, Victoria. All significant culverts and earthmoving works for the trail are either complete or nearing completion. Rail Trail Cottage is a comfortable and cosy two bedroom home, an easy 10 minute walk or even shorter bike ride to cafe's, shops and the gorgeous Ovens River. We are located on the Rail Trail only 700 meters from the center of Bright. If youre up for an extra 6 kilometres (whats another, This scenic sealed loop can be started from within the Myrtleford township or be included as an addition to the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail. Also in November, minor drainage culvert works will be finalised, and the final pavement layer will be built and prepared for asphalt application. This section highlights the valley on the approach to the mountains and gives views of Mount Hotham and the other alpine regions. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Melbourne to Bright by Car Depart Melbourne by The Great Valley Trail project is brand new - 16 kilometres of family friendly shared trail, completing a 27 kilometre link between Harrietville and Bright, and extending the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail to the base of the Alps. Mountains may surround you but the rises on this track arent even molehills, and youll barely raise a sweat on the uphill leg towards Harrietville. Start at Howitt Park, following the west bank of Morses Creek past the Bright Splash Park and under Quinns Bridge. Flexible pick up & return times for your group. It shares a large retail space just off the main street with Reed &Co Distillery, and this is where we come for afternoon post-ride flights of their six unique spirits: two classic gins made with botanicals from the local valleys, a pair of fascinating wine/gin blends, and blackberry and coffee-flavoured gin-based liqueurs. Signs are currently in place, and we ask that people please stay off those sections of the trail until after the asphalt has been laid, and the area reopened for use. Rail Trail Art Gallery Suspension Footbridge Suspension Footbridge Suspension Footbridge Suspension Footbridge Canyon Walk Bakers Gully Reservoirs Walk Huggins Lookout Walk rail . Taxi from Harrietville to Bright. Several magpies perched on a fence watch us scoot past, and a tiny robin swoops across the track. Ensure you carry enough water or a filtration device if intending on drinking from the river as you dont pass shops. Everything seems to grow well in this valley, and its one of the best places for chestnuts in Victoria. Arriving back at the shop, the girls were abuzz with achievement and we walked off to celebrate another epic adventure. Walk through the back gate and you will find yourself standing right on the fabulous Murray to Mountains Rail Trail. On the approach to the Smoko Streamside reserve the trail has pine plantation on one side, and native veg (and the Ovens River) on the other. Bright is a popular getaway from Melbourne offering a base for exploring Mount Buffalo, Mount Feathertop, Alpine National Park, Mount Hotham, and surrounding towns and villages including Mount Beauty, Falls Creek, Myrtleford, Harrietville and Dinner Plain. Line Information. Thank you and enjoy! Abundant with natural beauty, this stretch of the Trail is as ardently Australian as it is agricultural, with gum trees, rows of local vines and fertile. - Alpine Perennials, Harrietville, 2021-2023 Tourism North East |Editorial Policy|PrivacyandCookiePolicies |Photography Credits|Feedback | Media, Bright to Harrietville Great Valley Trail. Beginning as a goldmining settlement during the Victorian Gold Rush, these days you can enjoy a range of hiking, cycling, swimming and walking trails alongside an abundance of local produce and delicious food . Kookaburras seemingly laughed at us from the tops of the trees. Our region is home to a number of endangered species, such as platypus, for which litter can cause death, injury or serious illness. Please check your email for further instructions. Snowball Express. Myrtleford to Dinner Plain (snow season only) Via Bright, Harrietville, Hotham. Simple to master and easy to ride, e-bike hire starts from $55 for a half-day, which means weve got oodles of time to stop and admire these great outdoors. [5] Bright station is maintained as a museum.[2][6]. From the Freeburgh township side (West) of the Ovens, the trail follows an existing vehicle track all the way to Dibbin Lane. Turn right onto the sealed trail on the south side . Hop from cellar door to farm gate to providore, before reaching your destination in Porepunkah where you can rest and relax by the Ovens River. We decline the suggestion of a prosecco mimosa as a fortifier for the day ahead; our preferred drink is the excellent coffee, produced by another local hero, Sixpence Coffee.