The Ralph Cornwall Loch Valley Tramway Walk is very scenic as well as historical. The walk is very easy 5km return, approximately 1-1.5hrs. The formed tracks take you along the old tramway tracks which run alongside the Loch River. The tramway dates back to 1921 when the track was used to transport timber to the Noojee Railway Station.
About Ralph Cornwall Loch Valley Tramway Walk
When you arrive at the parking area which is at the commencement of the Ralph Cornwall Loch Valley Tramway Walk you will find a lovely little area to have a picnic before or after your walk.
The parking area is alongside the Latrobe River where you will find the Loch Valley Suspension Bridge which takes you across the river into Noojee town. This however is not the way to the Ralph Cornwall Loch Valley Tramway Walk. There is signage which provides information into the history of the tramway and directions which way to walk.
In 1921 a tramway construction was completed. The tramway was constructed to enable two Baldwin locomotives and trucks to carry sawn timber to the Noojee Railway Station.
In 1926 a bushfire destroyed most of the sawmills along the Loch Valley and homes were lost. Not only were these lost but also the two locomotives, Loch Valley sawmill and the trestle bridges were destroyed.
The Forest Commission purchased the tramway in 1929 after requests from the company for fund raising was refused from the Forest Commission. The tramway was relayed, this time using both iron and wooden rails, this time horses were used.
Again in 1935 the tramway was destroyed by yet another bush fire which destroyed the tracks and bridges. This time rail tractors were used to carry the wood to the mills along the Loch Valley.
Sadly there were more fires in 1939 which destroyed the tramway. This time the Ralph Cornwall Loch Valley Tramway was not rebuilt. In 1940 the iron rails which once formed the tramway were lifted.
Our Experience at Ralph Cornwall Loch Valley Tramway Walk
We left the carpark, took the time to read up on the history of the Ralph Cornwall Loch Valley Tramway and followed the signage to the walking track. As we approached the track entrance we explored the historical pieces of equipment once used on the tramway.
After checking out the equipment we strolled along the scenic beautiful old tramway. In some areas you could see where the old tracks once laid. As you walk along the track the lush tree ferns surround you.
Then you look up and see the towering Mountain Ash trees reaching high to the sky, on the right of you the river flows. Absolutely beautiful. When you walk along taking in the serenity and beauty don’t forget to take deep breaths of the fresh crisp air.
When you reach the end of the tramway track you come across a couple of picnic tables and a park bench overlooking the river. It truly is a lovely place to take time out and escape the hustle and bustle of city life so many of us encounter on a daily basis.
As you walk along the track don’t forget to imagine what life would’ve been like with either the locomotives running along the tracks or horses pulling the loads of timber.
Whether you are into history or not, if you love nature and walking this is definitely the place to explore.
Ralph Cornwall Loch Valley Tramway Walk Location
Attractions Nearby
- Noojee Trestle Bridge
- Noojee Heritage Centre
- Toorongo Falls Walk
- Amphitheatre Falls Walk via Toorongo Falls
- The Noojee Waterwheel
Free Campgrounds Nearby
Before you head to the campgrounds check their websites to ensure they are open. Sometimes the campgrounds are temporarily closed. When we explored this absolutely beautiful area the Toorongo Falls Campground was temporarily closed.
Ralph Cornwall Loch Valley Tramway Walk Location
- Ralph Cornwall Picnic Area, McCarthy Spur Road, Noojee
- Approximately 136km, 1hr 50min from the Melbourne CBD
Feedback/Comments
We always to hear about others experiences. Do you have any adventures you’d like to share with us, either at Noojee or any other destination?
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