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Nature & Adventure

Nature and adventure experiences can be found throughout the Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges. What can you do?

Enjoy bushwalking trails along creeks and streams and under towering forests. Wander the tracks, climb the hills, and discover the region's natural beauty. Fly above the clouds and see things from a different perspective with a hot air balloon flight or a helicopter ride. Discover amazing gardens that are beautiful all year round. Get the heart pumping with cycling tours, skydiving or challenging hikes. Enjoy stunning golf courses to spend the day. Meet our Australian animals and edible plants. Enjoy a ride on Australia's oldest and best-preserved heritage steam railway.

There really is something for everyone!

Explore over 120 walks and trails in our region.

Explore More

Oshannassy aqueduct ride 04
Destination

O'Shannassy Aqueduct Trail West Loop

Between the valley and mountain views, riders cruise through towering stands of mountain ash and gorgeous tree fern forests that give the area a…

Toolangi state forest
Destination

Toolangi State Park

Toolangi State Park has a number of things to see and do including a Discovery Centre and scenic trails. To fully immerse yourself into the beauty…

Oshannassy aqueduct delight
Destination

Cycle the Aqueduct Delight

Ride difficulty: 2* Bicycles: mountain, hybrid, cyclo X Day 1 (34km) Ride the O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail loop from Yuonga Rd car park, Warburton,…

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Attraction

Beeches Rainforest Walk

The ancient rainforest features groves of Myrtle Beech trees with a number trees over 300 years old. A primordial walk through the darkened corridors…

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Attraction

Yea Wetlands Walks

Just a short walk from High Street Yea, you can lose yourself in the peace and tranquillity of the natural bush and the impressive riverine…

Ride hey hey my my mind crusher
Destination

Ride the Hey Hey My My - Mind Crusher

This single track mountain bike loop packs a punch for experienced riders looking for up and down action. The trail started life as a clandestine…

Big Peninsula Tunnel Entrance
Destination

The Peninsula Tunnels - Big and Little

The Little Peninsula and Big Peninsula Tunnels are located on the Yarra River, about 14 km east of Warburton, 70 km from Melbourne, on the Upper…

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Attraction

Keppel Lookout

Keppel Lookout is one of the region's most impressive lookouts, providing spectacular views across Marysville, Cathedral Range State Park and the…

La la falls walk warburton
Destination

La La Falls Trail

The run to La La Falls may not be very long but the consistent up hill gradient offers some vertical gain without being overwhelming and the forest…

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Attraction

Myrtle Gully Circuit

The Myrtle Gully Circuit is one of several hiking and walking trails within the Toolangi State Forest which can easily be combined to create an even…

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Attraction

Lady Talbot Drive to Keppel Falls

The most challenging walk in the area, Keppel Lookout Trail climbs up through Mountain Ash and Stringybark forest to visit four of Marysville’s best…

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Destination

Warburton Circuit Walk

Wander through the leafy, peaceful back streets of beautiful Warburton and into the bush where the town meets the towering gum trees. How to get…

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Destination

Warburton Township Loop

The Warburton River Walk is a beautiful, gentle 5km walk that is easy and accessible. If you want to stretch your legs a bit more it can easily be…

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Attraction

Gallipoli Park

Gallipoli Park is a must visit during your trip to Marysville and surrounds.The main entrance to the precinct will take you through the stunning…

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Destination

Reids Tramline

The Reids Tramline walk provides an entertaining look at some of the relics of the historic tramline along which horses, and later, steam-powered…

Andrew hill circuit
Destination

Andrew Hill Circuit

This walk takes in the highest point in the park, Andrew Hill, from there a descent, which encounters two tributaries of the Yea River-Island Creek…

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Attraction

Kurth Kiln Regional Park

Kurth Kiln Regional Park is located a 65 kilometres east of Melbourne, and is mostly known for its kiln, used during the Second World War to make…

Warburton backstairs track littlejoe
Destination

Backstairs Track - Little Joe Loop - Tramway

For walkers who want to tick off a summit or for those after a quick(ish) leg burner that will get the heart rate up: Mt Little Joe, the 469m…

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Attraction

Buxton Recreation Reserve

Buxton Recreation Reserve is located on the corner of Mareeba Avenue and Maroondah Highway, right at the entrance of the Buxton township.The reserve…

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Attraction

Kinglake National Park

Kinglake National Park lies on the slopes of the Great Dividing Range, a short drive from Melbourne. Enjoy scenic walks, thrilling mountain bike…

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Journey

Devil's Elbows

Length: 5.5kmAverage Gradient: 5.7%Total Ascent: 377mClimb Category: 3Start: Cnr Burwood Hwy and Mt Dandenong Tourist Road - Upper Ferntree…

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Attraction

Lake Mountain Summit Walk

An easy four kilometre return walk with plenty of spectacular views of the Victorian Alps Across to Melbourne and the Great Dividing Range from the…

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Attraction

Lillydale Lake

Enjoy a picnic, barbecue or watch your children enjoy the all accessible playground. With 10 kilometres of trails, perfect for walking or bike…

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Attraction

Lake Eildon National Park

Camp by Lake Eildon and enjoy a whole world of watersports in a spectacular setting. Go swimming, canoeing, waterskiing, sailing, boating and fishing…

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Destination

Andrew Hill Circuit via Dusty Miller Track

This part of Kinglake National Park used to be heavily logged up to 1980. The walk follows tracks over the forested summit of Andrew Hill; Dusty…

Nillumbik aqueduct trail
Destination

Nillumbik Aqueduct Trail

This trail utilises the corridor of the historically significant Maroondah Aqueduct. The aqueduct was an engineering feat, following the contours of…

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Destination

Cycle the two trails loop

Drive to Warburton – either bring your own bicycles or rent from COG Bike Cafe right next to the old Warburton Station site. Ride from Warburton…

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Attraction

Yarra Ranges National Park

Cradling the Yarra River headwaters and much of Melbourne's water catchment, the park features majestic Mountain Ash trees.Visit the Rainforest…

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Attraction

Californian Redwood Forest

Take a refreshing walk through the majestic Californian Redwood Forest, just 15 minutes from Warburton and a 90-minute drive from Melbourne's CBD. Do…

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Attraction

South Jawbone Peak

South Jawbone Peak is located in the Cathedral Range State Park and can be accessed by a 3.5km grade 3 return hike from the Jawbone Car Park.Follow…

Starlings gap cycle riders
Destination

Mountain Bike the Starlings Gap Loop

The public roads that criss-cross the State Forest country south of the Warburton township provide interesting and relatively easy mountain biking…

Oshannassy aqueduct trail cyclist
Destination

Cycle the Warby Rail Trail and O'Shannassy

Cycling the Warby Trail and O'Shannassy Aqueduct Trail will take approximately 2 days and covers 89kms through the wonderful bushland scenery of…

Domdomsaddle to mt donna buang
Destination

Dom Dom to Mt Donna Buang

The walk covers the following peaks Mt Boobyalla, The Knobs and Mt Vinegar. Car at either end of the trail will be required. The track is undulating…

Dolly grey park waterfall
Destination

Dolly Grey Park

The trail starts on the Warburton Rail Trail behind the Waterwheel, crossing over an old railway bridge and onto a boardwalk. Take left track to…

Beechesrainforestwalk
Attraction

Cumberland Walk

Length: 4kmDuration: 2 hoursGrade: medium, short steep hills, formed track, some obstaclesStart: Cambarville picnic area car parkFinish: Cambarville…

Backstairs track
Destination

Backstairs Track and Scotchman's Creek

Scotchman's Creek was one of the earliest goldfields to open in the Upper Yarra district (late 1859) and was part of what was known as the Britannia…

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Attraction

Cathedral Range State Park

The jagged ridges of the Cathedral Range offer spectacular views and some of the best hiking in the state. Take a gentle walk along the Friends…

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Destination

Lake Mountain

The closest snow resort to Melbourne, Lake Mountain is an adrenaline-pumping year-round destination perfect for premier cross-country skiing,…

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Attraction

7 Peaks Ride - Lake Mountain

Victoria’s 7 Peaks Ride is an at-your-own pace cycling challenge which runs from late October to April. Taking you up winding mountain roads, around…

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Attraction

Michaeldene Trail

The Michaeldene Trail is a level two loop that may be undertaken as either as a Short (2.7 km) Loop, or a Long (4.3 km) Loop - 30 minutes to one hour…

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Destination

Shelley Harris Track

The Shelley Harris Track goes through lush, green vegetation and crosses several small streams, particularly after rainfall. Part of the Mt Everard…

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Attraction

Keppel Falls Walk

Keppel Falls is a long set of cascades that tumbles down the mountain side in the headwaters of the Taggerty River. After a pleasant one kilometre…

Oshannassy aqueduct delight
Destination

O'Shannassy Aqueduct Trail

Carved into the mountainside above the Upper Yarra Valley, the O’Shannassy Aqueduct trail is a 30-kilometre walking and bike-riding trail from East…

Ada tree yarra state forest
Destination

Mountain Bike the Ada Tree Loop

The public roads that criss-cross the State Forest country south of the Warburton township provide interesting and relatively easy mountain biking…

Ada tree walk boardwalk
Destination

Ada Tree Walk

The Ada Tree, located in the Yarra State Forest in the Yarra Valley, is a giant Mountain Ash and is considered to be one of Victoria's largest living…

Badger WEIR TRACK
Destination

Badger Weir via Coranderrk & Slip Tracks

Enjoy fresh mountain air and forest walks passing through ancient fern gullies, across clear mountain streams and meandering amongst mighty Mountain…

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Attraction

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden is the original garden of the historic Burnham Beeches estate, renowned for its extensive water features. Delightful…

Oshannassy aqueduct trail cyclist
Destination

Cycle the O'Shannassy Weir

Ride difficulty: 2* Bicycles: mountain, hybrid, cyclo X •Drive to Warburton. •Ride east from the Yuonga Rd car park on the O’Shannassy Aqueduct…

Michaeldene track
Attraction

Lady Talbot Drive to Michaeldene Track

The attractive bushland linking the Steavenson and Taggerty Rivers allows walkers and cyclists to step back in time to Marysville’s historic logging…

Seven Acre Rock
Destination

Seven Acre Rock

Seven Acre Rock is a large rocky outcrop that provides some of the most spectacular views of the Yarra State Forest, Bunyip State Park and adjoining…

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Attraction

Yea River Walk

The Yea River walk exists on land donated to the people of Toolangi and until the turn of the century a sawmill, 'Scherbers' operated in this forest.…

Mt victoria donna buang
Destination

Mt Victoria to Mt Donna Buang

The walk goes through mixed species forest at Mt Victoria, then up through Mountain Ash to Mt Donna Buang summit where there is a 21 metre high…

Goldfields stepping stones
Destination

Goldfields Walk

19th century goldmining relics and river diversion tunnels. Track has some steep areas that goes through remains of gold mining sites. …

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Destination

Walk Into History

This is a fascinating journey on foot along well-preserved timber industry tramways, past old bush mills and relics of yesteryear hidden amongst the…

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Destination

Richards Tramline

Richards Tramline is around 11km that passes through some pretty forest that ­– similar to the Walk Into History that starts/finishes nearby – is…

Wombelanoi falls
Destination

Wombelano Falls

Wombelano Falls is located in Kinglake National Park with car parking off Captains Creek Road. Wombelano Falls offers a 1.5km circuit walking track…

Silver creek walks
Destination

Silver Creek Walks Yea Road

COVID-19 (2020): For the latest information, please see https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/get-into-nature/safety-in-nature/covid-19-update There are a…

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Attraction

Tree Fern Gully Trail

Follow the Tree Fern Gully Trail from the town of Marysville to reach one of Victoria's tallest waterfalls, Steavenson Falls, and to enjoy a close-up…

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Attraction

Lyrebird Circuit Walk

The Lyrebird Circuit is the first track off the Masons Falls walk that you will come across after leaving the picnic area. The circuit track is a 500…

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Attraction

Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail

Get back into nature and stretch your legs on the iconic Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail. The 40km trail is perfect for walkers, cyclists, walking…

High low aqueduct river trail
Destination

High-Low Aqueduct Trail & River Run

Here’s a great walk or good mid-range ‘taster’ run that treats you to all the major delights of the Warburton township: riverbank settings, the…

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Attraction

Masons Falls

Masons Falls is nestled in Kinglake National Park, the largest and closest national park to Melbourne, making it an ideal spot for a day trip or…

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Journey

1 in 20

Length: 6.8kmAverage Gradient: 4.0%Total Ascent: 274mClimb Category: 3Start: Mountain Highway - The BasinFinish: Mountain Highway - SassafrasNearby:…

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Destination

Morleys Track - Dom Dom Saddle

Length9.3 km (one way) - Starts Dom Dom Saddle, Ends FernshawTime3.5 hoursGradeMediumVictoria's tall Mountain Ash grow to a height greater than 90…

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Attraction

Mt Everard Circuit

The Everard Circuit Walk is approximately 22 kilometres in length so allow five to six hours to complete. It resides in the Kinglake National Park,…

Toorongo falls reserve
Destination

Toorongo Falls Reserve - Katherine Hill Noojee

The Toorongo Falls Reserve is situated 100 kms east of Melbourne, north of the town of Noojee in Gippsland. The reserve encompasses a number of…

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Attraction

Warburton Bike Park

Warburton Bike Park is gearing up to be one of Australia's best mountain bike destinations -with even more trails opening, and shuttles beginning…

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Attraction

Sugarloaf Reservoir Park

Nestled in the Christmas Hills, Sugarloaf is a tranquil setting for a picnic or a stroll near the reservoir shores, offering wonderful views across…

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Destination

O'Shannassy Aqueduct Trail East Loop

Carved into the mountainside above the Upper Yarra Valley, the O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail makes for a wonderful ride and heading east from Warburton…

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Attraction

Beauty Spot Nature Trail

Beauty Spot is one of Marysville’s most popular short walks. It showcases some of Marysville’s most beautiful flora and fauna – including an…

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Destination

Bicentennial National Trail - Healesville to Narbethong 

The Australian Bicentennial National Trail (BNT) is a 5,330km self reliant multi use route through bush, wilderness and mountain areas. Trail Heads…

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Attraction

Red Hill Trail

The Red Hill Trail is located within the foothills of the Marysville State Forest. Its name is what it suggests, consisting of a gradual incline on a…

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Attraction

Lake Mountain Summit Walk

An easy four kilometre return walk with plenty of spectacular views of the Victorian Alps Across to Melbourne and the Great Dividing Range from the…

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Attraction

Melbourne Gun Club

Melbourne Gun Club – Clay Target Shooting in the Heart of the Yarra ValleyFor a unique and exhilarating group experience, the Melbourne Gun Club…

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Attraction

7 Peaks Ride - Lake Mountain

Victoria’s 7 Peaks Ride is an at-your-own pace cycling challenge which runs from late October to April. Taking you up winding mountain roads, around…

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Attraction

Gilwell Park Adventure Centre

Gilwell Park Adventure Centre sits within expansive bushland that makes every adventure feel authentic. Visitors move between open forest, sheltered…

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Journey

Warburton Adventure Company

Since 2021, the Warburton Adventure Company has been sharing the hidden trails, wild corners and breathtaking landscapes of the Yarra Valley they…

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Attraction

PNL 4WDriving

Come and learn to drive your Four Wheel Drive in a safe and environmentally friendly way with PNL 4WDriving. Gain confidence in your abilities and…

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Journey

Global Ballooning Australia

For over 30 years, Global Ballooning Australia has delivered unforgettable hot air balloon experiences across Victoria. As Australia’s #1 ballooning…

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Journey

Go Wild Ballooning

Go Wild Ballooning pioneered hot air balloon flights in Melbourne's, Yarra Valley in 1989. The Yarra Valley’s first established ballooning company,…

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Journey

Liberty Balloon Flights Yarra Valley

Liberty Balloon Flights offers an unparalleled way to experience the Yarra Valley, just over an hour from Melbourne. With a convenient transfer…

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Attraction

Golf at RACV Healesville Country Club and Resort

RACV Healesville Country Club and Resort offers an 18-hole golf course and a four-hole short course.Surrounded by beautiful native trees and…

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Attraction

Heritage Golf and Country Club

Heritage Golf and Country Club is founded on a philosophy of elegant simplicity. It is a vision realised in every detail – each graceful curve of the…

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Attraction

Maroondah Golf Park

Maroondah Golf Park takes adventure golf and driving range fun to a whole new level.Set amongst beautifully landscaped gardens with creeks, water…

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Attraction

Karwarra Australian Native Botanic Garden and Nursery

Located at Kalorama in The Dandenong Ranges, Karwarra is set on two hectares and is devoted to displaying the diversity of Australian plants in a…

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Attraction

Alowyn Gardens

A beautiful seven acre award winning display garden in the heart of the Yarra Valley. Featuring nine distinct garden areas, with seasonal displays.…

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Journey

Melba's Garden Walk at Coombe Yarra Valley

Seven acres of stunning gardens, landscaped over one hundred years ago, provide an evocative and romantic setting for weddings, photographs and…

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Attraction

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden is the original garden of the historic Burnham Beeches estate, renowned for its extensive water features. Delightful…

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Attraction

Cloudehill Gardens and Nursery

Cloudehill is a garden at the top of the Dandenongs in Olinda, and is internationally famous for garden rooms overflowing with flowers and…

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Journey

Coombe Yarra Valley - Tours

Nestled within the picturesque landscape of the Yarra Valley, Coombe Yarra Valley holds a rich history as the former residence of the renowned…

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Attraction

Blue Lotus Water Garden

The Blue Lotus Water Garden is one of Australia's most spectacular seasonal gardens open to the public from 26 December to mid April each year. The…

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Attraction

Warratina Lavender Farm

Enjoy the tranquil surroundings of this family run five-acre lavender farm, an hour's drive from Melbourne at the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges,…

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Attraction

Chelsea Australian Garden at Olinda

Located within the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, the Chelsea Australian Garden at Olinda is a permanent display, featuring an enormous Waratah…