Summary

A pretty as a picture return walk, Darbyshire Hill marks the beginning of a High Country Rail Trail (HCRT) climb including the historic trestle bridges Waterfall and Darbyshire No. 2.

Description

Century old railway trestle bridges make impressive spectacles bridging deep gullies and waterways. They made high country access possible. These two on the historic Cudgewa - Wodonga line (now the HCRT) are no different - Waterfall and Darbyshire Hill (No. 2) trestle bridges. Once seen you can only admire those who built and maintained them.

Both bridges are still standing, but in disrepair. They are for viewing only. Do not be tempted to walk on them.

The route is surrounded by alluring grazing and bushland. It drops into an appealing open valley that is largely sheltered by surrounding hills.

The gradient might have caused locomotives to struggle up and down, but it is pleasant for walking. The track itself is smooth compacted earth and granitic sand. Most adults and older children will have no trouble with either the distance or the fairly gentle return slope.

Despite the sheltering landscape, sudden weather changes may occur. Aside from plenty of car parking space at the top, there are no other amenities, nor is there potable water available. Be prepared for self reliant walking.

This is a shared pathway, so keep to the left. The vast majority of cyclists will give you a warning tinkle with their bell as they approach. However, as this is part of the long ascent to the highest railway station in the country at Shelley, it isn’t a well trafficked section of the HCRT.

Other HCRT walks:
Boggy Creek
Dry Forest Creek
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
Koetong "Spa" and Wildflower walk

Dogs are allowed on a leash and must be under control at all times.
Keep in mind that livestock may be present along the track.

7168 Views

Points of Interest

1. A short first section

Waterfall trestle bridge stands just a short walk of 50m from the back of and below the large gravel car park. There is a HCRT sign at the entry point.

2. Waterfall trestle bridge

The bridge still stands, but is in disrepair. Keep an eye on any children present who may venture out onto it.

3. A long bridge

At 80 metres, this is a long bridge. You can imagine laden rail trucks across its length.

4. Waterfall by name and by nature

Below the trestle bridge are the waterfalls for which it is named.

5. Quality interpretive signage

An excellent feature of the HCRT is the informative signage along the way. This section is no exception.

6. Pastoral views

Every step of the way you are accompanied by striking landscapes of hill and dale.

7. Cutting through the pines

A section of pines creates an atmospheric entry through a cutting to the next valley.

8. Murray Valley Highway bridge

Crossing the Murray Valley Highway is easy using the railway underpass.

9. The other side

Once under the bridge you are treated to the first distant view down the valley of your final destination, the imposing Darbyshire Hill No. 2 trestle bridge.

10. The trail opposite

You are also treated to a view of your descent on the opposite side of the valley.

11. Distance markers

At the cutting below you are 24km from Tallangatta and 8km east from the first trestle bridge you may have already visited, or plan to visit, at Dry Forest Creek.

12. Bucolic scenery

The scenery is a rustic treat.

13. Historical artefacts

Artefacts from the past can still be found along the way. Respect their heritage, sustain the character of the HCRT and leave them for others to ponder and comment on as well.

14. Shut the gate

This is grazing land. Cattle grids are not installed in this section of the trail. Please make sure gates are shut behind you.

15. You might meet .....

As mentioned previously, this is grazing land. Stock do have access to parts of the trail. Please move them on gently and without causing distress.

16. You might meet part 2 .....

There is plenty of life on the trail. Wildlife, birds, insects, stock and domestics can be observed. Keeping an eye open for such things is a great way to add value to the walk - especially for kids.

17. Your destination

Darbyshire Hill No. 2 is one magnificent piece of work.

18. A seat of sculpted artwork

The trestle bridge is not the only accomplishment worthy of comment on site. Another in the series of salvage art seating is present to be used and admired.

Features

Seating available

Historical interest

Art and culture

Nature trail

Lake, creek, river