Ballarat to Skipton
This rail trail starts on the west side of Ballarat, and runs along the old Skipton railway line, for a distance of 57 kilometers. The rail trail goes through Haddon, Smythesdale and Pittong. Smythesdale is a historic gold mining town, so anyone interested in the history of Victoria, would find a stop there, to be worthwhile. Boards showing the history of the area are placed along the rail trail.
In 2008 the local, state and federal governments contributed a total of $700,000 to the upgrade and resurfacing of the rail trail. The surface is now compacted granite sand, giving it quite a hard surface for riding on.
Nimmon’s Bridge, a historic timber bridge is a landmark of the rail trail. Cyclists can ride over the bridge, or onto a trail which allows access beneath the bridge, for a closer look at the structure of the bridge.
Distances on the rail trail:
- Ballarat to Smythesdale – 20k
- Smythesdale to Linton – 17k
- Linton to Skipton – 20k
This is a moderate grade ride, with a few gradual climbs and descents. A brochure with further details of the rail trail is available for download here

One of the information boards along the trail

Nimmon’s Bridge

Approaching Skipton on the rail trail
Ooh, I have family in Ballarat. I might have to do that trail one day! Looks fun.
Sounds like a great idea Christine. Thanks for visiting