21 Best Scenic Walks Melbourne 2024

Ready to ditch the city grind and dive into some nature vibes? Melbourne’s got your back with the best scenic walks around. Our guide will have you exploring like a pro.

Whether you’re a hiking legend or just love a good stroll, Melbourne’s scenic trails are here to wow you. So, lace up those kicks and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget.

Mt. Cannibal

For those looking for the best reward-to-effort ratio in a hike, the Mt. Cannibal 2.5km Circuit Walk is a must. Nestled just off the Princes Freeway near Garfield, this trail is a Melbourne favourite that offers an incredible payoff for the climb. The hike itself is a mix of steep ascents and descents, with a flat section linking the north and south lookouts. It’s challenging enough to get your heart pumping, but the views make every step worth it.

The summit rewards you with stunning panoramic vistas of Gippsland’s rolling hills, especially breathtaking during the golden hour. The large granite rocks provide perfect photo opportunities, making it a haven for photography enthusiasts. But a word of caution – take care on your way down, as the descent can be tricky. Whether you’re catching the first light of dawn or the soft glow of sunset, the Mt. Cannibal hike offers an unparalleled experience for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

• Highlights: Hiking, photography, fitness
• Address: 260 Garfield North Road, Garfield North, Victoria, Australia
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZDvGnvBfmdE6fcTL8
• Best Conditions: Sunrise or sunset, all year round
• Skill Level: Moderate; includes steep ascent and descent on stairs
• Facilities: Toilets at car park, no dogs allowed, no camping

1000 Steps Walk

If you’re a true Melburnian hiker, the 1000 Steps Walk, also known as the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk, is practically a rite of passage. Nestled in the lush Dandenong Ranges National Park, this iconic trek pays homage to the Australian soldiers who braved the jungles of Papua New Guinea during World War II.

This isn’t your average stroll in the park—it’s a challenging 3km return walk that winds through verdant fern gullies and stands of majestic mountain ash. As you ascend, each step is a poignant reminder of history, making the climb as meaningful as it is physically rewarding.

As you make your way up the 1000 Steps, you’ll be surrounded by the sights and sounds of the rainforest, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and those looking to unwind in a serene setting. The walk is also a great workout, offering a rewarding view at the summit.

• Address: Tree Fern Gully Track, Tremont VIC 3785, Australia.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/ZmhtXK8UymbXUBuD8

Mornington Peninsula – Two Bays Walking Track

The Two Bays Walking Track is a scenic walk located on the Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia. This walk takes you through diverse landscapes, from coastal bushland to dense forest, offering stunning views of the surrounding parklands and the coastline.

As you explore the Two Bays Walking Track, you’ll be able to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the park, the vibrant birdlife, and the beautiful beaches. This walk is perfect for those looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

• Address: Mornington Peninsula, VIC, Australia
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/9K9a5v2kHKbknAGq5

Point Nepean Walk

The Point Nepean Walk is a scenic walk located in Point Nepean National Park, Victoria, Australia. This walk takes you through diverse landscapes, from coastal bushland to historic military sites, making it a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

As you explore the Point Nepean Walk, you’ll be able to enjoy stunning views of the coastline, the surrounding parklands, and the historic Quarantine Station. This walk is perfect for those looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and the rich history of the area.

• Address: The walk is located in Point Nepean National Park, Victoria, Australia.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/kQt9zhV5EDE6R1JN9

Domino Trail, Trentham

The Domino Trail is a picturesque walk located in Trentham, Victoria, Australia. This walk takes you through the beautiful Wombat State Forest, following the path of the old railway line that once connected Trentham to Lyonville. The trail is approximately 6km one way and offers a peaceful escape into nature, with lush fern gullies, towering eucalyptus trees, and the historic Trentham Railway Station.

As you explore the Domino Trail, you’ll be able to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding forest and the charming town of Trentham. This walk is perfect for those looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and the rich history of the area.

• Address: The Domino Trail, Trentham VIC 3458, Australia.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/b35a337p567gi3B16

Bayside Coastal Trail

The Bayside Coastal Trail is a scenic walk that takes you along the beautiful coastline of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. This walk offers stunning views of the bay, the city skyline, and the historic piers, making it a must-visit for beach lovers and those looking to explore Melbourne’s coastal beauty.

As you stroll along the Bayside Coastal Trail, you’ll be able to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the various beaches, the peaceful serenity of the coastal parks, and the bustling activity of the marinas. This walk is perfect for those looking to escape the city and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach.

• Address: Bay Trail, Brighton VIC 3186, Australia.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/EyVR9qxH8DtzNhBk9

Yarra Bend Park

Yarra Bend Park, located just 4km northeast of Melbourne CBD in Clifton Hill, offers a scenic loop walk that takes you through diverse landscapes, from open grasslands to dense bushland. This walk offers stunning views of the Yarra River, the surrounding parklands, and the historic Studley Park Boathouse.

As you explore the Yarra Bend Park walk, you’ll be able to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the park, the vibrant birdlife, and the beautiful riverbanks. This walk is perfect for those looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

• Address: Yarra Bend Park is located at Yarra Bend Road, Fairfield, Victoria, Australia.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/P5PF9EDdG6uCfVKa9

Warrandyte State Park – Mount Lofty Walk

The Mount Lofty Walk is a scenic walk located in Warrandyte State Park, Victoria, Australia. This walk takes you through diverse landscapes, from open grasslands to dense bushland, offering stunning views of the surrounding parklands and the Yarra River.

As you explore the Mount Lofty Walk, you’ll be able to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the park, the vibrant birdlife, and the beautiful riverbanks. This walk is perfect for those looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

• Address: The walk is located in Warrandyte State Park, Victoria, Australia.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/Fj3u4HAZJZgwFk2u7

Lerderderg State Park

Lerderderg State Park, located in Victoria, Australia, offers a range of scenic walks that take you through diverse landscapes, from rugged gorges to dense forest. The park is home to the Lerderderg River, which has carved a 300-meter deep gorge through the park, offering stunning views and a peaceful escape into nature.

As you explore the various walks in Lerderderg State Park, you’ll be able to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the park, the vibrant birdlife, and the beautiful riverbanks. This park is perfect for those looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

• Address: The park is located in Victoria, Australia.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/SgXLdgTuPimmwDcU8

Bushrangers Bay Trail

The Bushrangers Bay Trail is a scenic walk that takes you through three inspiring landscapes – bushland, beach, and coastal track. This walk offers a unique opportunity to come face-to-face with local wildlife, such as kangaroos, wallabies, and echidnas, as well as a variety of bird species.

As you explore the Bushrangers Bay Trail, you’ll be able to enjoy the stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding bushland. This walk is perfect for those looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

• Address: Bushrangers Bay Walking Trak, Cape Schanck VIC 3939, Australia.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/U3qqexVjVmUMLVch7

St Kilda to Port Melbourne

The St Kilda to Port Melbourne walk is a scenic coastal walk that takes you along the beautiful beaches of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. This walk offers stunning views of the bay, the city skyline, and the historic piers, making it a must-visit for beach lovers and those looking to explore Melbourne’s coastal beauty.

As you stroll along the St Kilda to Port Melbourne walk, you’ll be able to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of St Kilda Beach, the peaceful serenity of Port Melbourne Beach, and the bustling activity of the St Kilda Marina. This walk is perfect for those looking to escape the city and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach.

• Address: The walk starts at St Kilda Beach, Victoria, Australia.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/Wd1v2e4m89yzmez59

Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk

The Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk is a 7.6km walk located in Werribee Gorge State Park, Victoria, Australia. This walk offers a mix of views, rocky paths, river walking, swimming spots, and a spectacular spot at the gorge. The trail takes you through diverse landscapes, from open grasslands to dense bushland, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

As you make your way around the Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk, you’ll be able to enjoy the stunning views of the gorge, the Werribee River, and the surrounding parklands. This walk is perfect for those looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

• Address: The walk is located in Werribee Gorge State Park, Victoria, Australia.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/wu6WVvijVB9aih4x5

Kororoit Creek Trail

The Kororoit Creek Trail is a 10km return walk that takes you on a journey through the western suburbs of Melbourne, from Selwyn Park in Albion to Buckingham Reserve in Sunshine West. This trail offers a glimpse of what the creek might have looked like before development, with its sealed and mostly flat shared footway providing a great place to explore nature in the suburbs.

As you walk along the Kororoit Creek Trail, you’ll be surrounded by lush vegetation and diverse wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. The trail is also home to several public artworks, such as the impressive ‘Spirits of Time and Place’ created by Brooklyn artist Geoffrey Ricardo. This walk is perfect for those looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.

• Address: The trail starts in Caroline Springs, where Caroline Springs Boulevard crosses the creek.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/FAuiRFBQ3tkP8Ug48

The Yarra Trail

The Yarra Trail is a picturesque 20km return walk that follows the Yarra River from Eltham to the city. This trail offers a serene escape from the bustling city life, as it takes you through beautiful bushland and along the riverbanks. One of the highlights of this walk is the Yarra suspension bridge near Templestowe, where you might be lucky enough to spot platypuses frolicking in the stream below. The trail is suitable for all fitness levels and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more energetic bike ride.

The Yarra Trail is not only a feast for the eyes but also offers a variety of experiences along the way. You can explore the historic Fairfield Boathouse, enjoy a picnic at one of the many parks, or simply take in the stunning views of the river and its surroundings. This trail is a must-visit for nature lovers and those looking to experience the beauty of Melbourne’s waterways.

• Address: The trail follows the Yarra River from near its mouth, through the city and suburbs to Westerfolds Park and Eltham.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/NhuLkjpGAPqADqri9

Maribyrnong River Loop

The Maribyrnong River Loop is a 6.8km walk that encompasses Maribyrnong Reserve, Aberfeldie Park, Fairburn Park, and Pipemakers Park. This picturesque walk takes you along Melbourne’s second major river, the mighty Maribyrnong, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere. The highlight of this walk is the stretch of path known as “The Boulevard” along the east side of the river.

As you stroll along the Maribyrnong River Loop, you’ll be able to enjoy the lush parklands, historic boathouses, and peaceful riverbanks. This walk is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a leisurely stroll in a beautiful setting.

• Address: The walk commences at Riverside Park car park in Essendon, Victoria, Australia.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/Ww8t4LJsj2dDo3j36

Capital City Trail

The Capital City Trail is a 29.6km circuit that takes you on a smooth, flat journey around Melbourne, showcasing some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. This shared path for cyclists and pedestrians starts at any point along the trail, such as the Victorian Arts Centre or Royal Botanic Gardens, and takes you past the MCG, Melbourne Park, and Como House.

As you explore the Capital City Trail, you’ll be able to enjoy the diverse neighborhoods of Fitzroy North and Brunswick, as well as the beautiful Yarra River and its surrounding parklands. This trail is an excellent way to see Melbourne by bike or on foot, offering a unique perspective on the city’s vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty.

• Address: The trail is a 29.6km circuit around Melbourne, starting at any point along the trail, such as the Victorian Arts Centre or Royal Botanic Gardens.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/J59gJhrbKbp4zUsG9

Plenty Gorge Walk

Plenty Gorge Park, located just 20km from Melbourne CBD, offers a wide range of natural and cultural experiences. The park is home to the Plenty Gorge Walk, which takes you through stunning landscapes, including rugged cliffs, peaceful waterways, and diverse wildlife. The park is also popular among bird watchers due to the diverse range of bird species that can be found in the area.

While specific details about the Plenty Gorge Walk were not found in the search results, the park itself is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those looking to explore the beauty of Melbourne’s surroundings.

• Address: Plenty Gorge Park is located in Victoria, Australia.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/7qXBzrijnZgKPUbH7

Flinders Peak Walk

Flinders Peak Walk is a moderately challenging 3.2km walk located in the stunning Wilsons Promontory National Park, Victoria, Australia. This walk takes you to the highest point in the You Yangs, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the western volcanic plains, Geelong, and Melbourne. With 450 steps to climb, the Flinders Peak Walk is perfect for those seeking a bit of adventure and a rewarding view at the summit.

The walk starts at the Turntable carpark, where you’ll find barbecues, toilets, and picnic tables. As you make your way up the steps, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful bushland and impressive rock formations. This walk is not only a great workout but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the You Yangs.

• Address: The walk is located in Wilsons Promontory National Park, Victoria, Australia.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/k7DGsHL71p6yB2XE6

Ironbark Basin Walk

The Ironbark Basin Walk is a hidden gem tucked away between Bells Beach and Point Addis in the Great Otway National Park. This 8.2km walk takes you through the sheltered forest of the Ironbark Basin, where you can tramp past grass trees and search for hidden treasures like rare orchids, echidnas, and reptiles.

As you explore the Ironbark Basin Walk, you’ll also have the opportunity to learn about traditional Aboriginal lifestyles on the Koorie Cultural Walk and enjoy spectacular views from one of the three Point Addis lookouts. This walk is perfect for those looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.

• Address: Ironbark Basin Nature Trail, Bells Beach VIC 3228, Australia.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/ZnH4RVQvMqySeveC9

Mount Oberon Summit Walk

The Mount Oberon Summit Walk is a 6.8km return walk located in Wilsons Promontory National Park, Victoria, Australia. This intermediate walk takes you to the summit of Mount Oberon, offering incredible views over Tidal River, the surrounding bushland, and the long stretch of golden sand at the coast.

As you make your way up the well-formed track, you’ll be surrounded by lush vegetation and diverse wildlife. The Mount Oberon Summit Walk is perfect for those seeking a bit of adventure and a rewarding view at the summit.

• Address: The walk is located in Wilsons Promontory National Park, Victoria, Australia.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/mFiVcDbGf311W6Ro9

Toorongo Falls Circuit Walk

The Toorongo Falls Circuit Walk is located in Toorongo Falls Reserve, Victoria, Australia. This walk takes you through dense native rainforest to two waterfalls, Toorongo Falls and the smaller Amphitheatre Falls. The trail is well-formed and offers a peaceful escape into nature.

As you explore the Toorongo Falls Circuit Walk, you’ll be surrounded by the sights and sounds of the rainforest, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and those looking to unwind in a serene setting.

• Address: The walk is located in Toorongo Falls Reserve, Victoria, Australia.
• Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/BZx63gUAHjF8H6vi9

Best Scenic Walks Melbourne at a Glance

Our list of best scenic walks in Melbourne includes:

• The most picturesque riverside walk: The Yarra Trail
• A serene escape in the suburbs: Kororoit Creek Trail
• A smooth journey around Melbourne’s iconic landmarks: Capital City Trail
• A rewarding adventure with breathtaking views: Flinders Peak Walk
• Melbourne’s most popular running track: The Tan Track
• A hidden gem in the Great Otway National Park: Ironbark Basin Walk
• A challenging walk with incredible views: Mount Oberon Summit Walk
• A peaceful escape into dense native rainforest: Toorongo Falls Circuit Walk
• A mix of views, rocky paths, and river walking: Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk
• A scenic walk through bushland, beach, and coastal track: Bushrangers Bay Trail

Embark on an unforgettable adventure and explore the captivating beauty of Melbourne’s most breathtaking walking trails.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these walks suitable for all fitness levels?

Most of the walks on our list cater to various fitness levels, from easy strolls like the Yarra Trail and Capital City Trail to more challenging hikes like Flinders Peak Walk and Mount Oberon Summit Walk. It’s essential to choose a walk that suits your fitness level and experience.

Can I access these walks using public transport?

Many of the walks within Melbourne, such as the Yarra Trail and Capital City Trail, are easily accessible by public transport. For some destinations outside the city, like the You Yangs or Werribee Gorge State Park, it may be more convenient to rent a car or join a guided tour.

Are these walks dog-friendly?

Some walks, like the Yarra Trail and Kororoit Creek Trail, may allow dogs on a leash. However, it’s essential to check the specific regulations for each walk, as some parks and reserves may have restrictions on bringing pets.

What should I wear and bring on these walks?

It’s essential to wear comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing for the weather conditions. Also, bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and a map or GPS device if needed. Always check the weather forecast and park conditions before heading out on a walk.

Are there any seasonal highlights for these walks?

Some walks may have seasonal highlights, such as spring wildflowers or autumn foliage. It’s a good idea to research each walk beforehand to know the best time to visit and any seasonal attractions.