Stony Creek Trestle Bridge

About this picnic area

The Stony Creek Trestle Bridge is located just off the Princes Highway between Nowa Nowa and Lakes Entrance. It is a popular tourist attraction for visitors exploring the beautiful East Gippsland region.

This iconic and heritage-listed bridge was built in 1916 when the railway line from Melbourne to Bairnsdale was extended by almost 100km to Orbost. This extension was reputed to have been the most difficult rail project undertaken in Victoria due to the rugged terrain.

At 276m long and 20m high, the Stony Creek Trestle Bridge is one of the largest standing bridges of its kind in Victoria. Constructed using red ironbark and grey box timber, the bridge is a fine example of the early engineering skills that made do with the resources and materials found on site. The bridge remained in regular service for over 60 years until it was damaged by bushfire in 1980, with the last train crossing it in 1988.

Today, the Stony Creek Trestle Bridge is a popular stop along the East Gippsland Rail Trail, which stretches for almost 100km between Bairnsdale and Orbost. The bridge can be viewed from an elevated viewing platform at one of the abutments, or from the carpark at the base of the bridge where you will also find picnic tables and toilet facilities.

More attractions

Visitors looking to extend their stay can enjoy a picnic or camp overnight at nearby Cosstick’s Weir, hit the trails at Nowa Nowa MTB Park, or grab refreshments or accommodation at the nearby towns of Nowa Nowa, Bruthen or Lakes Entrance.

Page last updated: 31/07/24