If you are looking for a hike in Melbourne, there are many to choose from. While the options in this list aren’t exactly in Melbourne city itself, they are all a short distance from Melbourne, all within driving distance for a great day trip. You can do the hike up Mount Oberon, the Werribee Gorge Circuit, or the Mornington Peninsula National Park. All are worth it, but it’s up to you which one you prefer.
Flinders Peak Walk
Flinders Peak Walk is a short hike in You Yangs Regional Park. There are 450 steps to the top of the mountain, which provides incredible views of the area.
The vantage point is worth the trip. Its 6 million-year-old rock formations are impressive. However, the trail itself is not as easy as it looks. Hikers should be prepared for a steep section.
For a better view, there is the Hanging Rock Summit Walk. This is a great way to see the most important features of the rock, including a cave squeeze. In addition, the opulent picnic area at the end is a worthwhile stop.
If you want to hike the highest point in Victoria, you may want to consider Barralbarayi (Sugarloaf Peak). This hike offers stunning views of the surrounding area, and is a challenge.
Another trail is the Great Ocean Road. While it is not as popular as the other hikes on this list, it is a beautiful drive. As the name suggests, the Great Ocean Road traces the coastline of Victoria southwest of Melbourne.
Although there are many other hiking trails in the region, the best ones are located in Lake Mountain. With trails ranging from 250 to 8km, you’ll have plenty of options for a day outdoors.
Other notable spots include the Hanging Rock, Lake Elizabeth, and Torquay Falls National Park. All three provide magnificent views, and some even offer places for a picnic.
Depending on the weather and time of year, the hikes are challenging. So, you’ll need to be prepared with appropriate footwear, sunscreen, and snacks. To make sure you’re ready, check the weather forecast.
Despite its challenging nature, the You Yangs national park is very accessible. It’s located just outside the city, and is free to enter.
Werribee Gorge Circuit Hike
The Werribee Gorge Circuit Hike is a spectacular hike in Melbourne, Australia. It is a loop walk that has many amazing viewpoints and features a steep ascent and descent. There are also rocky sections and rock scrambling. This hike is suitable for a variety of abilities.
You can start the hike from several different locations on the western side of the Werribee River. The walk is approximately 12.5km. If you’re looking for a day hike, you can enjoy the scenery along the gorge rim and take in the natural beauty of the area.
The trail is well marked. Some of the terrain is rocky, but there are still plenty of great views. A section of the route includes a cable handrail.
As you walk, you’ll pass Hanson’s farm house ruins. There’s also a small rock climbing area. The trail follows a disused water channel.
There are also a few river crossings. If the water is high, the river can be a great place to play. However, the trails can be slippery in wet conditions. Unless you want to take a chance, it’s a good idea to wear a pair of hiking boots.
The Western lookout is the most impressive section of the walk. You’ll get a great overview of the rocky hills around the gorge.
After that, you’ll find a scenic river beach, which is an ideal place to stop and rest. You can continue to the Lions Head and finish the circuit.
Whether you’re looking for a day hike or a longer hike, the Werribee Gorge Circuit is a fun walk that can be done in any season. If you’re looking for a hike near Melbourne, this is one of the best options.
Mount Lofty in Wonga Park
If you’re looking for a scenic walk in the inner north-east of Melbourne, you should check out the Mount Lofty bushwalk. This 5.4 km track starts in the Wonga Park area and offers stunning views of the Yarra River, the surrounding mountains and creeks. It is perfect for families and groups.
The best part about the Mt Lofty walk is that it is relatively easy to follow. You’ll find it’s a good way to see the sights of the Yarra River and its surrounds, and you can get a nice picnic while you’re at it.
Aside from the impressive views, the Mt Lofty walk also introduces you to a variety of flora and fauna found in the park. It isn’t hard to see why the area is a popular tourist destination.
As well as the Yarra River, the Mount Lofty track also crosses Bushy Creek, providing a great opportunity to spot local wildlife. You can see the likes of the brown goshawk, a rare bird.
The best time to visit is during low tide, which means you can explore the costal caves and beaches. Other highlights include the huge arch and the impressively large rock formations.
For something a little more strenuous, try the Cathedral Range walk. While it may be a challenge at times, it is well worth it.
Another fun walk is the RJ Hamar Forest Arboretum. Located in the Dandenong Ranges, it’s a great place to explore the natural surroundings. There are wide, open paths and you can enjoy a nice sunset.
Finally, the Mount Lofty circuit walk is a great walk for beginners. The 4.5km route is located in Wonga Park at the end of the Reserve Road.
Mornington Peninsula National Park
Mornington Peninsula National Park is a stunning slice of coastal wilderness on the far western rim of the peninsula. It’s one of the best hiking destinations in Victoria. There are plenty of trails to choose from. Some of the most popular include the Mornington Peninsula trail, the Port Phillip Bay Coastal Walk, and Cape Schanck.
The Mornington Peninsula has the ocean on one side and bushland on the other. It’s also home to koalas and wallabies. You can also take a hike to see the spectacular coastal cliffs.
If you’re interested in some challenging walking, try the Barralbarayi (Sugarloaf Peak) hike. This challenging walk includes adrenaline-inducing rock scrambles and a cave squeeze.
Another walk is the Point Nepean Coastal Walk, which has the ocean on one side and Port Philip Bay on the other. Along the way, you’ll pass old military forts, a quarantine facility, and scenic beaches.
Another popular walk is the Steavenson Falls hike, which takes hikers through lush forest and then to a spectacular waterfall. You’ll also get some of the best views of Marysville and Melbourne.
Other notable walks are the Brisbane Ranges park, which is home to one of the state’s largest wildflower habitats. These trails are ideal for families with young children. They’re also dog-friendly.
For the ultimate coastal experience, head to Cape Schanck. This hike combines coastal cliff top views, hidden beaches, and kangaroo sightings. During your hike, you’ll pass a secluded lighthouse and an idyllic beach.
The Otways region offers many more wonderful walks, including a 4km loop around Lake Elizabeth. Here, you’ll discover beautiful eucalypt trees, wild platypus, and Eastern Yellow Robins.
Whether you’re looking for a day hike or a weekend adventure, you’ll find something to please your family at Mornington Peninsula.
