Sandy Creek Bridge walk (western approach)

Sandy Creek Bridge walk (western approach) created by Sean Mathews

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Summary

Walk a pretty High Country Rail Trail (HCRT) section along the Lake Hume foreshore using the western approach from Huon Station crossing the very impressive Sandy Creek Bridge and then returning.

Description

A walk in the "something special" category to suit all ages. This offering has history, water, broad vistas, an easy gradient and a spectacular bridge to cross. Everyone will enjoy it.

The Aboriginal name for the Sandy Creek area of Lake Hume is Bungoona, once the most densely populated area for Aboriginal communities in the north east of Victoria. This location was a rich hunting and gathering ground.

The late 1800s saw massive change with the arrival of Europeans. Selectors began extensive clearing for pasture and gold attracted thousands. In 1887 the beginning of construction on a new railway from Wodonga to Cudgewa was pivotal in accelerating development.

Closed in 1981 this historic line now sees walkers and cyclists revisit the past and anticipate the future of the region. The engineering accomplishments are worthy of close inspection with the natural beauty of the area beyond question.

Walking is a great way to experience this place, especially when there are so many amenities available. Once the site of busy Huon Station, Huon Reserve provides for picnicking and public toilets. The platform and goods shed remain. The rail trail itself offers a smooth surface, easy gradient, seating, lookout points and interpretive signage.

Then there is the sculpturally reimagined 600 metre Sandy Creek Bridge itself. The setting is delightful, the design engaging and the satisfaction of the pleasurable 6 kilometre return walk rewarding.

For those with less time of less able to manage 6km the shorter, flatter eastern approach may be more suitable. You can find it using this link: Sandy Creek bridge walk (eastern approach)

Other HCRT walks
Waterfall and Darbyshire Hill trestle bridges walk
Bridges and Cuttings walk, Tallangatta
Mitta Bridge to Old Tallangatta

Other walks in the region
Playles Hill Lookout walk, Corryong
https://walkingmaps.com.au/walk/5827 Koetong "Spa" and Wildflower walk

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Points of Interest

1. Amenities

The public toilets are clean, the picnic area offers a shaded spot to spend some time. There is a boat ramp. This is a day visitor area only.

2. Birdlife

A delightful feature of the area is the birdlife, here exemplified by this Great Egret spotted opposite the picnic area.

3. John Hillier Memorial Garden

In 2016 a cairn was raised and dedicated on this site to John Hillier, founder and driving force behind the development of the High Country Rail Trail.

4. The gate

Vehicles are excluded from the trail by locked gates.

5. Fishing the shoreline

While you are there, why not drop a line yourself? Licensed fishing is permitted.

6. Walk considerately

Leave only footprints and let sleeping cows lie.

7. Your destination

Once you see it, Sandy Creek Bridge demands to be walked.

8. The bridge approach

The closer you get the more impressive Sandy Creek Bridge is.

9. Seating

There is seating along the way for those needing a break or a spot to soak up the surroundings.

10. A shared pathway

The flat concrete surface makes crossing easy. This is a trail shared with cyclists. Keep left when walking and enjoy the polite warning of those approaching and their smiles as they pass.

11. The bridge lookout

The point of return is a lookout platform extending out from the bridge itself.

12. Have a chat with the water folk

There is usually a boat in sight. Sometimes you can get the latest fishing news direct to the bridge.

13. The return

Walk back the way you came to Huon Reserve. Make sure you visit the Goods Shed and station platform before your departure.

14. Huon Station Goods Shed

The Goods Shed must have seen a lot of traffic over the years. It was moved to this location from lower on Huon Lane when the capacity of Lake Hume was increased.

15. Huon Station platform

The Huon Station platform sits alongside the Rail Trail. Station name signs were made and installed by Rail Trail volunteers. There is excellent signage on site with historical information.