Tyers Junction Rail Trail

The Tyers Junction Rail Trail, in Victoria’s Baw Baw Ranges near Erica, is a rugged 7 km one-way trail from Collins Siding to Telbit Crossing following part of the former Tyers Valley timber tramway. Unlike a typical smooth rail trail, this one has a distinctly adventurous feel, winding through mountain ash forest, rainforest and fern gullies, with creek crossings and rougher compacted-earth surfaces. It’s best suited to mountain bikes rather than road or narrow-tyred touring bikes. From Collins Siding, the trail descends through the forest towards Telbit Crossing, crossing several creeks where the original tramway bridges once stood. Along the way riders pass tree ferns, messmate and stringybark forest, with plenty of opportunities to spot lyrebirds, kookaburras, wallabies and other wildlife. Seasonal wildflowers add another reason to visit during late winter and spring. At Telbit Crossing, riders can turn around for a roughly 14 km out-and-back, or continue approximately 3 km down Telbit Road towards Tyers Junction. Be aware that this connecting road is used by logging trucks, and the remaining tramway corridor beyond the maintained section isn't an official maintained cycling trail. The route has an interesting forestry history. The Tyers Valley Tramway was built by the Forestry Commission of Victoria to transport timber from the slopes of Mt Baw Baw. It connected with the former Moe–Walhalla narrow-gauge railway at Collins Siding, using the same 2 ft 6 in gauge. The main tramway eventually extended almost 10 km to Tyers Junction before splitting along the eastern and western branches of the Tyers River. It closed in 1949. The trail also sits close to Erica MTB Park, where some intermediate downhill trails incorporate sections of the rail-trail corridor, while the nearby Walhalla area provides plenty of additional railway history and riding opportunities. RTS Tip: Don't expect a manicured rail trail — Tyers Junction is closer to an MTB adventure along an old tramway formation. Mud, fallen trees, creek crossings and rough road-base sections can all feature, particularly in winter. A mountain bike with wider tyres is the best choice. For the simplest ride, tackle Collins Siding to Telbit Crossing and return for around 14 km; if you continue towards Tyers Junction, be particularly cautious of logging traffic on Telbit Road.