Casual Cycling around Bright
The town of Bright makes a great base for casual cycling with the famous Murray to Mountains Rail Trail passing through here.
One of the three popular rail trails of the High Country, the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail offers a great experience for casual cyclists who are looking for a safe, easy and scenic ride in the countryside.
Choose between short rides, day rides or multiple days in the saddle; the beauty of the trail is that you can start and stop just about anywhere.
The flat easy sections of the Rail Trail are perfect for families looking to get out and explore the area. Food, wine and beer lovers will also love the bounty of delights found along the trail.
For those wanting to cover long distances, you’ll pedal under wide open skies, among fertile valleys of grapevines and produce with stunning views to the mountains.
Casual Cycling Events
Porepunkah’s Bike Rodeo & Traffic Safety Program
Held in November, this program provides a fast-paced, fun and safe way for kids to learn new tricks, skills and boundaries on their bikes. These 90-minute sessions are on a purpose-built track with lights, signs, other kids and no cars.
Parents can enjoy great refreshments while the kids gain confidence and develop new skills.
porepunkahps.vic.edu.au
Popular Rail Trail Rides from Bright
Bright to Wandiligong
| Length | 10 km return |
| Grade | Beginner |
| Surface | Sealed |
| Permitted activities | Cycling, walking |
| Seasonal closures | None (open all year) |
The newest leg of the Murray to Mountain Rail Trail is Bright to Wandiligong, a picturesque, heritage-listed village born out of the 1850’s Gold Rush period. This is an easy 10 km return trip from Bright along Morse’s Creek.
Enjoy a riverside picnic or meander along the very quiet, looping road to Wandi. Along the way visit local apple and nut orchard farm gates and imagine life in times gone by. It’s a family friendly ride and the Wandi Maze is magic for the kids.
Bright to Porepunkah
| Length | 12 km return |
| Grade | Beginner |
| Surface | Sealed |
| Permitted activities | Cycling, walking |
| Seasonal closures | None (open all year) |
This Rail Trail runs from the picturesque Alpine adventure hub of Bright to the now retired saw mill town of Porepunkah which is nestled right at the foot of the mountain. Along the way you will get magnificent views of Mount Buffalo which will not disappoint.
Only 6 km, this leg is the most child friendly with cafes and playgrounds along the way. The river crossing (you ride over a bridge) also makes for an unexpected highlight.
Bright to Myrtleford
| Length | 30 km one way |
| Grade | Beginner |
| Surface | Sealed |
| Permitted activities | Cycling, walking |
| Seasonal closures | None (open all year) |
The Bright to Myrtleford Rail Trail is a picturesque 30 km ride through the Alpine Valleys with winery and gourmet stops a-plenty. This gobsmackingly beautiful leg meanders alongside the Ovens River, vineyards, hops producers, orchards and groves. Hop from cellar door to farm gate to providore, before reaching your destination in Myrtleford.
If you don’t want to ride back from Myrtleford to Bright Bus-a-Bike carries up to 11 people and their bikes to wherever, from wherever, along the trail. Alternatively, reverse your journey and start in Myrtleford ending in Bright where you can rest and relax by the river with a local brew (beer or coffee) in hand.
Bright to Gapsted
| Length | 41 km one way |
| Grade | Beginner |
| Surface | Sealed |
| Permitted activities | Cycling, walking |
| Seasonal closures | None (open all year) |
With Mount Buffalo dominating the landscape, this 41 km ride epitomises the joy of riding through the Alpine Valleys.
Valley views, farmland, mountains to rivers and a little touch of Mediterranean culture are some of the wonders you can expect along this cycling trail.
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