Neerim: Rail Trail, Views and Railway History

Neerim combines views of the Tarago Reservoir with a distinctive railway past. On the edge of town is Apex Lookout, where the reservoir can be seen against the slopes of the Great Dividing Range. The Rokeby to Neerim Rail Trail runs through Crossover Regional Park and also offers views of the reservoir. The trail, lookout and railway history provide three concrete ways to connect a trip with the landscape, outdoor activity and a historical theme. Which one sets the tone can shape your choice of activities and where you stay.

Views between the reservoir and the highlands

At Apex Lookout, the view centres on a clear focal point: the Tarago Reservoir, framed by the slopes of the Great Dividing Range. Along the Rail Trail, you encounter the same connection to the landscape as you follow the route. The difference lies in how you visit: you can make the lookout the main focus or experience the landscape as part of the trail. This choice can help you plan your visit around a fixed lookout or a route through Crossover Regional Park.

Allowing time for the Rail Trail

For planning purposes, the section from Neerim South to Apex Lookout has specific measures: it is 5 kilometres long and takes about 1.2 hours one way. This figure is for the one-way journey; if you plan to return, allow for that separately. The Rokeby to Neerim Rail Trail can be used on foot or by bicycle. Its length and approximate duration provide guidance for this particular section, while you can choose how to travel in a way that suits your itinerary. The endpoint is Apex Lookout on the edge of Neerim. Check current trail conditions before your visit, as conditions and maintenance can change.

The trail to Apex Lookout in Neerim has developed shared-use connections. Construction works in the first stage, from Crossover Regional Park to the lookout, were completed in August 2025. The Baw Baw Shire Council also reported on 29 August 2025 that a new toilet block at Apex Lookout had replaced the previous one.

A route with railway history

The Rokeby to Neerim Rail Trail is part of the original Warragul to Noojee rail line. Near Neerim, the trail follows this old line. It was built between 1890 and 1919 and closed in the 1950s. These dates mark a construction period and the railway line’s later closure. Today, this historical connection is part of a route that can be used on foot or by bicycle. If you’re interested in railway history, the former line gives the trail added significance: it runs not only through Crossover Regional Park but is also connected to the area’s railway past.

Choosing Neerim as a destination

If you’d like to combine scenery, outdoor activity and railway history during your stay, consider Neerim as a destination when looking for holiday accommodation. The section described ends at Apex Lookout on the edge of town, so you can base your choice of location on a specific destination and named route. Consider whether the trail itself, the view or the railway’s history is the deciding factor for you.

Discover more destinations: Venus Bay, Penshurst, Wandin North, Torrumbarry, Leichardt, St Andrews, Bairnsdale, Rawson

For the main travel overview: Victoria.