Dry Forest Creek trestle walk

Dry Forest Creek trestle walk created by Towong Shire walks

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Summary

This High Country Rail Trail (HCRT) return walk goes to Dry Forest Creek Trestle Bridge - the first in a series of historic trestle bridges. It is easy walking. After here the trail begins to climb.

Description

Following the High Country Rail Trail (HCRT), this walk traverses a flood plain typical of the high country Mitta and Murray River systems. It traverses broad valleys amongst high hills. Vistas are extensive and attractive.

This walk not only offers grand open spaces, but also appreciation of the history of the region. The Dry Forest Creek Trestle Bridge is the first in a series of historic trestle bridges along the old Wodonga - Cudgewa railway line.

The walk suits all generations. Dry Forest Creek is the most accessible of the trestle bridges. The return distance is only 2km. The trail is completely flat. The surface of compacted earth and granitic sand is smooth and in good condition. The trail is in open country and you can see out across the surrounding countryside. As a shared pathway you can see riders easily and they can see you. The etiquette remains to keep to the left.

While the bridge itself is not a huge example of its kind, it demonstrates the difficulties the landscape presented to pioneering engineers and today’s volunteers. Restored by devoted and skilful volunteers from the Tallangatta Rail Trail Advisory Group to a condition reminiscent of its heyday, the first trestle bridge heading east along the HCRT is well worth a visit.

Also featured is a fine piece of artwork, a sizeable sculpted bench seat created from materials salvaged from the site during renovation.

The walk is fully exposed to the elements, there are no amenities or potable water. Prepare by wearing appropriate clothing during inclement weather, carrying water and being SunSmart.

Other HCRT walks in this region:
Boggy Creek
Waterfall & Darbyshire Hill trestle walk
Sandy Creek Bridge walk, Huon
Lake, Town and Rail, Tallangatta
Mitta River to Old Tallangatta

Other walks in this region
Bellbridge Foreshore walk
Playles Hill Lookout walk, Corryong

Dogs must be on a leash.

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Points of Interest

1. The entry gate

This section of the HCRT runs through premier grazing country. A stock grid and stock exclusion fencing are in place. Parking on Granya Road is limited. The nearby intersections offer more space.

2. A firm base

The track surface of compacted earth and granitic sand is in good condition. The gradient to the first trestle is flat all the way. This is a shared pathway, so remember to keep left.

3. If you like horses .....

The eastern side of the trail is home to a horses with some very curious and handsome specimens.

4. Wombat apartments

This is a residential area. Enjoy and be respectful of the local wildlife.

5. Trail art and amenity

Max Laubli's trail art is sculpted from materials saved during the bridge restoration. Conveniently, it doubles as a seat. You can read more about it on site.

6. Excellent interpretive signage

The interpretive signage long the trail is of high quality. It includes relevant images and informative text.

7. Dry Forest Creek trestle bridge

Approaching the bridge itself you see the top surface. At the woodwork itself, you can appreciate the volunteer restoration work.

8. HCRT voluntary trestle bridge restoration

Restored between 2015 and 2019 by volunteers from the Tallangatta Rail Trail Advisory Group, visitors will admire this skilfully executed and significant achievement.