Timboon-Camperdown Rail Trail - START

This is the Timboon end of the Camperdown to Timboon Rail Trail, a 34 kilometre gravel path running through dairy country and remnant forest in the Otways hinterland. The trailhead sits a short walk from Timboon's main street, near the skate park and playground, and you do not need ambitions of the full distance: out-and-back sections of any length work fine from this end.

The walk

The surface is fine, well-maintained gravel and flat enough for a pram or a dog that tires easily, following the old rail corridor through farmland and wooded stretches. It is a shared path used by cyclists and walkers, and occasionally horses, so expect company and keep left. The landscape is classic western districts: green paddocks, remnant forest pockets and long straight stretches between them.

Leash status

Dogs must be on lead at all times along the trail, per Corangamite Shire. The route crosses active farmland in places, so a short lead matters around livestock on adjacent properties. Warmer months also bring snakes in the grassy sections, another reason the lead stays on.

Water and hazards

There is no drinking water on the trail itself, so pack enough for both of you. Public toilets sit in the townships, including at the Timboon start. The route is open and exposed once you leave town, so carry sun protection even on a mild day. Bins are scarce along most of the trail, bring bags and carry waste back out with you.

Getting there and parking

The trailhead is off Bailey Street in Timboon with free parking nearby, plus public toilets and picnic tables at the start. There is no practical public transport, so driving is the way in. The trail is open 24 hours, though daylight hours are the sensible window given the exposure and livestock crossings.

When to go

Weekday mornings are quietest. Friday afternoons and Saturdays get busy with cyclists, so keep dogs close on the narrower sections when the bikes come through. The flat surface suits most dogs and most fitness levels, just mind the shadeless stretches in summer.

Max: weekday mornings are quietest, Friday afternoons and Saturday get busy with cyclists so keep dogs close on the narrower sections.

While you're out there

Timboon Fine Ice Cream is an easy walk from the trailhead in town and hands out dog-friendly scoops at its outdoor seating, and Schulz Organic Creamery and Cafe on Ford and Fells Road welcomes dogs in its garden a short drive out of town. For a weekend base, Lakes and Craters Holiday Park at Camperdown sits near the other end of the trail.

More routes are on the Victoria trails list, or browse dog friendly Timboon.