Bullioh - Darbyshire Hill & Waterfall Trestle Bridge Walk
A lovely 8.4km 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.
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 High Country Rail Trail) 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. 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 High Country Rail Trail.
Location - There is a large carpark off Murray Valley Highway in Bullioh. On Google Maps it is south of where Darbyshire Creek crosses Murray Valley Highway and directly east of point "Old T'Gatta - Koetong Rail Trail Stage 4".
Map of Route
Interactive Map
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 High Country Rail Trail 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 High Country Rail Trail 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 High Country Rail Trail 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.
Location
Murray Valley Highway, Bullioh 3700 Map
Web Links
→ Waterfall & Darbyshire Hill trestles walk, Bullioh (Walking Maps)
