Discover Tallarook: Rail Trail and State Forest

At the foot of the Tallarook Ranges lies Tallarook, where outdoor experiences and insights into local history come together. The Great Victorian Rail Trail begins here. There is also Tallarook State Forest, an arboretum along Dabyminga Creek, and places to picnic, play and swim. This lets you shape your stay around different interests—from outdoor activities to a visit to the market or a glimpse into the town’s history.

Rail Trail and forest: different ways to enjoy the outdoors

The Great Victorian Rail Trail is a shared-use trail that you can explore on foot, by bicycle or on horseback. Tallarook Station is also part of the trail’s story: it is the only operating railway station on the Great Victorian Rail Trail. Tallarook State Forest offers different opportunities. The forest covers 5,100 hectares and offers opportunities for horse riding, camping and bushwalking. The activities differ clearly: on the Rail Trail, you can choose between several ways of getting around; in the forest, camping is another option alongside outdoor activities. Check current conditions in the forest before your trip.

Trails, picnic areas and water

Tallarook Arboretum runs alongside Dabyminga Creek and features native vegetation, winding trails and several picnic areas. Those interested in plants and the layout of a trail will find a different focus here than on the shared-use trail. Freeman's Picnic Area is also well equipped for an outdoor break, with public toilets, barbecue facilities and tables. These amenities may make a difference when choosing a picnic area; check the local information about the facilities before your visit.

There are other options for play and swimming, too. CWA Reserve Park has a playground with a merry-go-round, climbing equipment, a slide and swings. Tallarook Outdoor Pool has a 22-metre pool, a toddler pool, a waterslide and shaded areas. This gives you a choice of activities: play equipment, time by the water, or a break at tables and barbecue facilities each offer a different focus. The swimming pool adds a water-based option to the playground and picnic spots, without requiring you to plan the same kind of outing.

Market and local history

Tallarook Farmers Market is held on the first Sunday of every month. It offers a wide selection of produce and creations from producers and makers from across Victoria. If you want to plan your visit around the market, check the latest program details before travelling.

Two buildings also offer insights into Tallarook’s history. The Mechanics Institute was rebuilt after a devastating fire in May 2018. Tallarook Station’s building was used as a museum and is a reminder of the station’s role in the community and surrounding area. These connections offer a different way to experience the town than activities in the forest or on the Rail Trail: the focus here is on architectural history and the station’s importance to the community.

Plan your stay around your interests

To plan your trip, it helps to first choose the experiences you want to shape your stay. Those who want to focus on the Rail Trail can choose between walking, cycling and horse riding; those who include the State Forest can also camp there. The arboretum and picnic areas bring walking trails and breaks into the mix, while the playground and pool offer other activities. The market and historic buildings add local produce and local history to the options. These differences can help guide your accommodation search, without requiring every experience to fit into the same day’s plans.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Tarrawarra, Rosedale, Clayton South, Koroit, Burnbank, Leichardt, Bobinawarrah, Wongarra.

For the main travel overview: Victoria.