Red Hill Rail Trail

The Red Hill Rail Trail follows the old railway formation for about 6.5 km between Red Hill South and Merricks on the Mornington Peninsula, 13 km if you walk it out and back, and dogs are welcome on lead for all of it.

The walk. This is an honest half-day with a dog. The path is well maintained and mostly flat with some gentle inclines, moving through pine forest, vineyards and pony paddocks. Count on 1.5 to 2 hours one way and three or so for the full return, or just walk to a vineyard fence line and turn around, the trail is as good in pieces as it is whole.

The rules. Mornington Peninsula Shire Council manages the trail and requires dogs on lead at all times. It is a shared path, so expect bikes, runners and horse riders, and give way when you meet hooves. Pick up after your dog, the shire can fine for waste left behind.

Parking and facilities. Start at Red Hill Station Reserve, off Point Leo Road behind the Red Hill shops, where there is a large free car park, toilets, a rest shelter and barbecues. Toilets are at the Merricks end too, so the turnaround has facilities as well.

Make a day of it. Nordie Café in Red Hill sorts the coffee before you set off. If the dog still has legs afterwards, Hann Creek Off-leash Dog Park at Balnarring is a short drive away for a proper run. And if you want to make a weekend of it, Merricks Cottage sits near the far end of the trail, with The Orchard at Red Hill South the closer option to the trailhead.

When to go. The trail never closes, and weekday mornings are the quiet slot. The pine sections hold shade but the vineyard stretches are open to the sun, so carry water for the dog in summer. Autumn, when the vines turn, is the pick of the year.

Sources

• Dogs on the Peninsula, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council · mornpen.vic.gov.au
• Red Hill Rail Trail, Rail Trails Australia · railtrails.org.au
• Red Hill Rail Trail, AllTrails · alltrails.com

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.