The trail can be run in either direction starting at the information session at Port Fairy on Bank St or in the carpark at Breakwater Precinct in Warrnambool. The railway line from Warrnambool to Melbourne was opened in 1887. The construction of the line to Port Fairy, via Koroit started in late 1888 and it was completed in 1890. Between Warrnambool and Port Fairy there were 12 gate keepers’ cottages and stations were situated at Warrnambool, Illowa, Koroit, Crossley, Kirkstall, Moyne, Rosebrook, Glaxo and Port Fairy. Many of the station signs are still located on the trail.