Highlights

Walking trail: Grade 1 | 6km | Sealed

Start / end: Katherine Station to Morey Rd

The Katherine Rail Trail is worth a place on your Aussie Bucket List if you enjoy cycling and walking outdoors, with an addition of Australian history. The Katherine Rail Trail is a high standard rail trail with the centrepiece of the bridge across the Katherine River. The trail follows the route of the historic North Australian Railway, where a considerable amount of effort has gone into preserving the remaining structure. The trail includes links to the Katherine River cycling path and the RAAF base at Tindal, and other tracks around town.

This rail trail begins at the former Katherine railway station and after crossing the historic Katherine River railway bridge, runs through savanna and limestone outcrops typical of the area. The centre of the trail is the former railway station, which has several reminders of its past days as well as a steam locomotive on display.

Interpretive signs along the path highlight the history of the railway including the former Emungalan township and the nearby cemetery. Before the Katherine River railway bridge was built, the town of Emungalan (on the north side of the river) was the railway terminus of the line from Darwin. After the bridge was completed in 1926, the new town of Katherine was formed and Emungalan faded away.

At several locations the trail deviates from the formation to preserve rails and Carnegie steel sleepers as heritage features. Railway culverts and bridges have been retained. Part of the path, including a bridge, has been decked in steel mesh so the rails and three types of sleepers are visible. Solar lights have been installed over the bridge.

Activities

• Hiking
• Walking
• Cycling
• Mountain biking

Facilities

• Railtrail - 6km sealed trail