In a narrow valley lies a town that’s largely untouched by time. Walhalla has a gorgeous old world charm and is worth a visit just to take in the history. You’ll see the old wooden Fire Station spanning Stringer’s Creek, the corner store which now operates as a Post Office, shop and Tourist Information Centre, the rebuilt Walhalla Train Station, private cottages and well kept parks and gardens. I highly recommend leaving time after your walk do a mine tour at the Long Tunnel Extended Mine.
The Walhalla Goldfields Railway operates historic train rides between Walhalla and Thomson, it provides stunning views as it winds on trestle bridges over Strings Creek Gorge. You have the option to ride the train back from the end of this walk, it’s well worth it, but make sure you book ahead of time as it can get busy.
This walk is the starting point of the Australian Alps Walking Track which winds through Victoria, NSW and the ACT. The walk starts behind the Band Rotunda, follow the steps that lead up the hill and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views looking down over Walhalla. Continue on this trail along the old wooden tramline that used to transport wood and gold, and pass entrances to now closed off mine shafts.
This track can be very narrow in parts, mind your footing as you walk half a metre from vertical cliff drops. The overgrown trees and shrubs will make you wish you had worn pants instead of shorts, and speaking of clothing, make sure you consider the weather pack some warm clothes / a jacket as even in summer it can be very cool up here in the mountains.
Follow the trail along Stringer’s Creek Gorge where you’ll peek sections of the train line here and there, and eventually you’ll cross Mormon Town Track where our trail turns north away from Walhalla Rd.
Follow the trail along Thompson River Valley until you reach Poverty Point Bridge. Unfortunately for me the bridge was closed due to safety concerns, with no date on when it will be repaired. After reading about the history of the bridge, taking in views of the valley and perhaps enjoying your lunch, retrace your steps back down the track to the Mormon Town Track, where you’ll turn right and continue south to Thomson bridge for some more fantastic views.
From here you can wait for your train ride back to Walhalla (takes about 20min), or walk back along the same path.