Just over an hour out of Melbourne CBD, the Lilydale to Warburton rail trail (Or Warby Trail to locals) is a perfect day trip for those looking to get out of the city, stretch their legs and take take in some gorgeous views of the Yarra Ranges National Park. 

The Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail

The Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail is a gorgeous, scenic trail in the Yarra Valley, winding through the valley between the Dandenong Ranges and the Great Dividing Ranges. It follows an old railway line that used to transport passengers and goods from 1901 to 1965. We love to do it by bike, but you can also do the 40km on foot or by horse.

How to get there

Catch the Lilydale train from the city to the end of the line (pro tip: if you time it right, you can get the express train skipping most stations). Remember to make sure your bike is stable on the train. You can take bikes free on all Metro carriages, but remember, you can’t board on the first door of the first carriage as this is reserved for passengers with mobility needs.

The Trail

Adjacent to the start of the trail in Lilydale is a BMX track! Do indulge for the thrill if it’s open!

The trail will take you through the small towns of Wandin, Woori Yallock, Seville, Launching Place, Yarra Junction, Wesburn, Millgrove before finishing up in Warburton. The trail is mostly unsealed, with the Millgrove to Warburton section as the only sealed part of the ride. The first part of the ride is the steepest up Mount Evelyn, but don’t get discouraged. It’s a manageable incline and before you know it you’ll be freewheeling down the other side. If you’re visiting in the spring, keep an eye out for gorgeous wildflowers between Lilydale and Mount Evelyn.

There are no shortages of cafes along the way, so if you need caffeine sustenance, it’s never far away! The Carriage Cafe at Seville is a GoGet Team favourite.

A particular highlight is spotting the old platforms and imagining trains pulling up to them in years gone by. Many of original platforms remain, some with replica station signs too so your imagination won’t need to do all the work for you.

As you pedal towards Warburton, get ready for the iconic trestle bridge over the Yarra River with insta-worthy views. The sleepy town of Warburton is a fitting end to the ride. You’re spoiled for choice of restaurant or pub to rest those weary legs before you jump on the train back to the city. Even better, if you can convince a friend with a van (Hint: GoGet has vans and SUVs to fit the bikes) to meet you in Warburton, they can drive you the one and a half hour trip back to Melbourne. 

If you don’t have your own, bike hire is available in both Lilydale and Warburton.

GoGet out and explore

If you’re a GoGet member, then there’s nothing standing in your way! Book a car or van today and GoGet out there. No Membership? No problem! We’ve got the perfect plan for you!