Hiking in the Dandenongs can be a very rewarding experience, especially if you enjoy nature. There are many options for different types of hikes, including loop tracks, Mechanics Tracks, Living Bush Nature Walks, and SkyHigh. However, it can be difficult to decide which ones are right for you. That is why we have decided to make it easier for you by sharing some of our favorite options.
Burkes lookout
If you are looking for a short and easy walk in the Dandenongs, Burkes lookout may be for you. The views from this lookout are amazing. You can enjoy a panoramic view of Mount Dandenong and Melbourne. There is also a cafe on site.
This scenic 1.2km track is a popular walk in the Dandenongs. It starts at the Memorial Arch. From here, it leads through lush fern gullies. At the end, you can walk through the Lyrebird Track.
This walk is a great way to get your exercise. It has a bit of a hill at the three-quarter mark, but it is a manageable hike. On weekends, this trail can be quite busy.
Another well-known walk in the Dandenongs is the Fire Trail. It is a moderately challenging out-and-back trail that includes a bit of rock scrambling and a steep straight-up incline. However, this hike is not recommended during wet weather.
A less-strenuous option is the Sherbrooke Forest waterfall trail. This trail features a cascading waterfall and massive trees. While the waterfall is pretty, it isn’t quite worth the hike.
Burkes lookout and Kyeema Track are located in Dandenong Ranges National Park. They are easy to access, and you can expect to have a good time.
You can combine this walk with other activities in the Dandenongs. These include cycling, running, or even walking. Depending on your ability and fitness level, you can make a full day trip.
Mechanics Track
Mechanics Track is a great walk in the Dandenongs. It is not long (about two kilometers) and takes you to Olinda Falls. The trail is quite steep in some places, but a bit easier on the return trip.
One of the best things about Mechanics Track is that it is well-signposted. You can get directions from a map or the AllTrails app. Once you have downloaded the AllTrails app, you can add routes to your library. This means that you will have a handy guide when you hike in the Dandenong Ranges.
The Mechanics Track is located in Dandenong Ranges National Park. There are lots of activities in the area. These include waterfalls, steam railway, gardens, mazes and more.
The Dandenong Ranges are home to over 200 kilometres of walking trails. Most of these are short and easy to do. If you want to do a longer hike, you can head to the Western Slopes Hiking Track. Although it is nine to eleven kilometers in length, it offers gradual ascents.
Another good option is the Sassafras Circuit. This is a four-kilometer hike that is a beginners’ hike. It features lots of Mountain Ash and ferns.
There is also a 9-kilometer hike called the Fireline Track that runs around Mount Dandenong. There are transmission towers along the way, and the views are spectacular.
Other walks in the area include the Eastern Sherbrooke Forest Walk and the Caterpillar Track.
Living Bush Nature Walk
The Living Bush Nature Walk is a 2.5 km loop that leads through native bushland. It is a beautiful walk that offers a good workout. There are also plenty of opportunities to see native birdlife.
The Living Bush Nature Walk is located in the Ferntree Gully Area of Dandenong Ranges National Park. This area is known for its stunning landscapes. Some of the highlights of the hike are tree ferns, Mountain Grey Gums, and the native fauna.
Walking along the Living Bush Nature Walk is a relaxing experience. You will have a great view of Melbourne as well as front row seats to native flora and fauna.
There are three picnic areas in the Ferntree Gully Area. The first is One Tree Hill. In addition to the picnic grounds, there are a number of walking trails.
Another area to explore is the Sassafras Circuit. The circuit is 4km and is great for a beginner hike. It features lots of ferns and Mountain Ash.
The Valley Picnic Ground to Olinda Falls Return Trail is 7km long and is an easy hike. Although this trail is not as scenic as the longer version, it is still a pleasant walk.
One Tree Hill is another popular hiking spot. This trail leads to the highest point of the Dandenong Ranges. At about 800 metres above sea level, you can enjoy a stunning view of the Yarra Valley wine region.
Olinda Creek Walking Track Return
The Olinda Creek Walking Track is a popular tourist attraction in the Dandenong Ranges. It is an easy walking trail with few obstacles. You can complete the walk in either direction.
The main trail is clearly marked. It has a few steep sections which can get muddy in wet weather. However, it is generally flat.
The trail starts at Silvan Reservoir Park and is a 5.6km walk one way. The trail is easy and can be walked by a child. There are several picnic spots along the way.
For an alternative return route, take Simmon’s Avenue. This can be a long walk but it is possible to park at Mt Evelyn Recreation Reserve. After clearing land, you will see a sign for the Aqueduct Trail.
This track has a lot of ferns and trees. In fact, the first section of the trail is filled with huge fern trees.
The track is also dog-friendly. During the peak periods, the picnic area can get very busy. But it’s a great place to take your family on a day out.
Another interesting trail is the Lookout Rock (Walk One). You start at the Mathias Tk and the walk takes you through the forest. You will then go to a rock formation and continue to the dam Rd.
From here, the track heads north to Mount Dandenong. Alternatively, you can take it south to Mt Evelyn.
SkyHigh
Dandenong Ranges are an idyllic getaway for those looking for a quiet weekend away. This scenic area is a short drive or train journey from Melbourne. It’s also the perfect destination for art lovers, or anyone who wants to get a little closer to nature.
A great way to explore the range is by taking a walk in the ‘SkyHigh’. This is a natural lookout that provides panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay. The location is 633 metres above sea level, making it the highest natural lookout in Victoria. You can enjoy an elevated viewing terrace with stunning views, as well as a contemporary cafe and family bistro.
The SkyHigh Restaurant and Lookout offers a picturesque view of the city at sunset. It’s an ideal place to eat a quick lunch or for a quiet dinner. During the day, the restaurant is open eight hours a day and seven days a week. Alternatively, take a picnic and watch the sky at the SkyHigh picnic areas.
The Dandenong Ranges National Park is home to numerous wildlife. In particular, Swamp Wallabies are the most common mammals in the park. But you’ll find a wide variety of other animals, including Superb Lyrebirds, Blotched Blue-tongued Lizards and Rainbow Lorikeets.
The Dandenong Ranges are home to many waterfalls, including the Olinda Falls. They are particularly beautiful in Autumn.
For a less strenuous hike, try the Valley Picnic Ground to Olinda Falls Return Trail. At just 7km, it’s a manageable hike, but you’ll still find some beautiful scenery along the way.
Loop track
The Dandenong Ranges are a great place to enjoy the natural world and take in a scenic walk. If you are looking to plan a day out or a weekend away, there are plenty of hiking trails and cafeteria options. It’s a quick drive from Melbourne, making it perfect for a family trip.
There are many loop trails to choose from. These include bush, gravel and paved tracks. Many of them lead off into remote areas of the national park. Some are also a good way to see a variety of animals.
One of the most popular and best-known of these is the 1000-steps-walk. The trail, which is a fairly long walk, includes a number of impressive features. For starters, it’s a surprisingly steep incline.
Another is the Fire Trail, which is not recommended during rainy seasons. This one is also an impressive feat of engineering. In addition, it’s also a fun and interesting hike.
While these are the most well-known loops, there are plenty of other ones. Check out the Dandenong Ranges map to find out which ones you can explore. You can also download an app on your smartphone that will provide you with a customised route and a detailed map.
The Birdsland Reserve is another fun and informative walk in the Dandenongs. This 3km loop features an excellent view of the valley and native birdlife.
