The Trail
The two directional trail consists of a good gravel surface, suitable for all weather riding.
Commence the trail at Scottsdale - the major regional centre of the North East. Here there are plenty of accommodation options including free camping at Northeast Park, supermarkets, bakery, and numerous cafes with some great coffee and tasty local treats on offer to start your adventure.
The trail commences at the old Scottsdale Railway Station where it heads south out of town and descends through picturesque farmland and bushland. A trail connection links 3km out of town with Northeast Park for those camping or wanting a small detour. Heading behind the old timber mill at Lings Sidling the trail crosses the Tasman Highway twice (good sight lines) before crossing over the Great Forester River at Tonganah.
From Tonganah the trail heads steadily up through tall forests, tree fern lined cuttings and huge embankments across gullies to the former railway station at Tulendeena (the top of Billycock Hill). Here the trail officially ends however you can continue down the Snake Track into Legerwood (approximately 3.4km) to see the tree carvings. (Note: This road is gravel and steep in places).
Stage 1: Tonganah to Tulendeena (Billycock Hill) - OPEN
Stage 2: Tonganah to Scottsdale - OPEN
Shorter Rides
Scottsdale to Northeast Park
Approximately 3km (one way) down to Northeast Park where there is walking trails, BBQ facilities, playground and amenities. Head back to Scottsdale along the trail or return to town via Ringarooma Road.
Scottsdale to Tonganah
Approximately 10km (one way) to the old Tonganah Clay Mine. With toilet facilities close by and peaceful grassy spots beside the water this is a nice ride for a picnic lunch. Ride back to Scottsdale or organise a pick up from the end of Tonganah Road.
Tulendeena to Tonganah
Approximately 16km (one way) this one is all down hill. Organise a drop off at Tulendeena and just roll down through the forest at your leisure. Picnic at the old Kamona station and finish up beside the old Tonganah Clay Mine.
Trail Facilities
Shelters are located at the old railway station sites at Trewalla, Kamona and Tulendeena.
Toilet facilities are located at: Scottsdale - Alfred Street (next to the Scottsdale Visitor Information Centre), Tonganah and Legerwood
BBQ facilities are available at: Scottsdale (Northeast Park and Children's Reserve) and Legerwood Park.
Water is available at: Scottsdale - Victoria Street, Scottsdale Recreation Ground, and Tonganah.
Camping is available at: Scottsdale - Northeast Park
Trail Maintenance
The trail is maintained by the Scottsdale Rotary Club. If you come across something needing attention on the trail please let them know. Call Shane on 0409 527 228.
Trail History
The Launceston to Scottsdale railway line was opened in February 1889 with the rail reaching Branxholm in 1911 and to Herrick in 1919. By 1978 the last passenger trains closed down in Tasmania and the rail network, including the Launceston-Scottsdale line, focused solely on freight. By the early 1980's the Scottsdale line had just three daily services and by 2005 the line was closed.
The Rotary Club of Scottsdale and volunteers developed the first 14km section of the trail from Tonganah through to Billycock Hill. This was opened around 2012 with the second stage from Scottsdale to Tonganah opened in 2015.
Stage 3 of the trail is currently in the planning phase and will see an addition 40km of trial constructed to connect Scottsdale through to Lilydale Falls Reserve.
