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- This tramway trail follows part of the route of the historic Kaoota Tramway.
- Although short, this trail is surprisingly scenic with most of the trail surrounded by deep tall bush and steep rocky hillsides.
- The trail itself is uninterrupted by crossings, creek valleys or bridges and is easy to navigate.
- The trail is very well defined with a varying surface, sometimes quite smooth but often composed of small rocks. This makes the trail suitable for touring and hybrid bikes with slightly wider tyres and mountain bikes. The trail is not as suitable for road bikes or very narrow tyres in general. Some suspension would improve comfort but is not necessary. In wet conditions a wider tyre would provide more security on the wet small rocks and thin mud.
- At the time of riding (January 2022) the trail was clear of growing vegetation, fallen trees and branches and it appears to be well maintained.
- The gradient of the trail is modest, allowing a fun downhill with speed limited by the lumpiness of the surface and a gentle uphill ride back.
Nearby Attractions
- Huonville is the nearest major regional centre with a range of facilities for visitors, including supermarkets, bakery, coffee shops and plenty of accommodation options including an official camping ground.
- There is also an information centre in the main street.
Last updated: 6 December 2022
Start near 186 Kaoota Rd between Kaoota and Allens Rivulet and follow the trail through the dense forest of The Gorge
Then progress around Perrins Ridge and across Platypus Creek Bridge
The trail then goes over Perrins Saddle to the end of Lawless Rd, which takes you to Margate via Nierinna Rd.
Tramway track information sign - note dogs on a lead are allowed so watch out for people and dogs. (2022)
Sign pointing to the start of the Kaoota end of the track. There is a small car park there. (2022)
Near the start of the track there is a clearing before it enters the bush. (2022)
At the Margate end of the track (still well above the Margate township). There is another information sign to indicate the end of the official tramway track. (2022)
The track surface is quite easily rideable most of the length. (2022)
Ride through some beautiful fern corridors (2022)
Do you know of a bike hire or transportation service on this rail trail that should appear here? If so, let us know at admin@railtrails.org.au.
Information and Links
More information on tracks and trails in the area can be found here
Contact Rail Trails Australia
To contact us about this rail trail, email tas@railtrails.org.au
Background Information
The Kaoota Tramway, built in 1906, two-foot guage and 20 kms long, transported coal from the mine at Kaoota to the wharf at Margate. When coal mining ceased the tramway was put to use for moving logs, fruit and passengers.
In 1992 the line was dismantled after fire destroyed some bridges.
Nearby Trails
Hobart Intercity Cycleway
Hobart area, 1km from Hobart
15 km
Derwent Valley Rail Trail
Derwent Valley, north east of Hobart.
Mystery Creek Cave Trail
109km South of Hobart
2 km
Wielangta Tramway Trail
65km North East of Hobart
6.5 km
Lake Dulverton Rail Trail
Oatlands 83km from Hobart
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Nearby Trails
Hobart Intercity Cycleway
Hobart area, 1km from Hobart
15 km
Derwent Valley Rail Trail
Derwent Valley, north east of Hobart.
Mystery Creek Cave Trail
109km South of Hobart
2 km
Wielangta Tramway Trail
65km North East of Hobart
6.5 km
Lake Dulverton Rail Trail
Oatlands 83km from Hobart
7 km
