It is frequently used by local residents and recreational cyclists, because of its proximity to other paths, many suburbs, and connecting transport. The path was upgraded in December 2006 and is now fully sealed and divided. The trail, in some sections, follows the direct line of the old railway; in others, it weaves through parks and follows the side of the Alamein Line. It then continues beyond Alamein Station, passing underneath the still-standing overhead wiring pylons, and then heading towards the Gardiners Creek Trail in Malvern East through to Hughesdale Train Station in the south.
Route
At the very southern end of the trail users can access the Gardiners Creek Trail. Access is provided via the small footbridge at the south end of Solway Street. Due to flood damage the bridge was closed from April 2006 to June 2007. After being open for 3.5 years the bridge was washed away by flood waters very early in the morning of 5 February 2011, after heavy rain resulting from the remnants of Tropical Cyclone Yasi, rendering the bridge impassable.[5][6] It was then rebuilt and opened in late 2011.
Map of the main trail from Fairfield Station to Gardiners Creek
The path is fully sealed, either bitumen or concrete, and busy road crossings are serviced by pedestrian traffic lights. At various locations along the path, there are barbecues (at the park adjacent to Whitehorse Road crossing and Frog Hollow Reserve). There are also frequent water fountains along the path. Many parks are dotted along the path, such as ovals, playgrounds, tennis courts and cricket pitches.
Boroondara BUG's proposal to close the gap between Markham Reserve and Holmesglen Station via a shared path alongside Warrigal Road. Creating a link to the Waverley Rail Trail.
