Warburton Rail Trail: Lilydale to Seville

The Lilydale to Seville leg is the first stretch of the Lilydale-Warburton Rail Trail, running about 16.6 km from Lilydale Station out through Mt Evelyn and into the vineyard country around Seville. Dogs are welcome on lead, confirmed with Yarra Ranges Council, and the hard-packed crushed gravel and gentle gradient make it manageable for most dogs even though the full distance is a serious day out.

The walk

The trail splits into three practical chunks: Lilydale to Mt Evelyn is 6.9 km of steady climb, Mt Evelyn to Wandin drops 5.6 km through shady bushland, and Wandin to Seville rolls 4.1 km through open rural country. Because the surface follows an old rail alignment, the going stays easy underfoot the whole way.

Scenery shifts noticeably depending on which stretch you pick, from suburban streets to forest to vineyard views. This is the opening section of the longer Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail, and a good taster if you are not ready for the whole 40 km route.

Leash status

Yarra Ranges Council requires dogs on lead and under control at all times. The trail is shared with runners, cyclists and horse riders, so reliable lead manner matters more than off-lead recall here, and pick up after your dog because the council enforces it.

Max: on a shared multi-use trail like this, a shorter lead and a solid heel cue near cyclists and horses will make the whole walk calmer for everyone.

Water

Water fountains and bowls appear at points along the trail, especially near the old station sites, and there are benches and shaded grassy spots that work well for a dog picnic break. Carry your own backup in summer and use the bins provided for waste.

Hazards

The trail turns muddy after heavy rain, particularly through the forested middle sections, so check conditions if the weather has been wet. Magpies get territorial and swoop along the trail in spring, worth knowing if your dog reacts to aerial surprises.

Getting there

Start at Lilydale Station near Beresford Road on the Belgrave-Lilydale train line, with parking near the station or at the old Seville Station site off the Warburton Highway. The Martyrs Bus Service runs between Lilydale and Warburton, so you can walk one way and bus back rather than doubling up.

More walks nearby

Let your dog stretch off lead before or after at the Lillydale Lake North West Dog Off Leash Area, and refuel at the Carriage Cafe in Seville at the end of the leg. If you are making a weekend of it, Westering Cottage in Wandin North makes a handy base.

When to go

Go on a cool morning in autumn or spring, when the gravel is firm and the vineyard sections are at their best. Good for steady, sociable dogs who are happy on lead around other trail users.

More options are on the Victoria dog walks guide and the Lilydale destination page.