We love heading out into nature, and going on some spectacular hikes around Victoria. From forest walks, to coastal trails, and wholesome spots for animal-spotting, there’s a lot to choose from! But if you’d like to stay closer to home, there’s plenty of easy walks near Melbourne too. And AllTrails have crunched the numbers to reveal the top-rated walks just outside of Melbourne, with popular one hour loops for a nice break outdoors, as well as top trails that are about an hour away from the city. If you need some ideas on where to go for your next walk, this list is the perfect place to start.
Top-rated walks near Melbourne according to All Trails
One Hour Loop trails outside Melbourne
1. Ker-Bur-Rer Walk
You’ll find this wholesome family trail on the Mornington Peninsula. Park your car at The Briars Park Visitor Centre, then head to the picnic area. From there, you’ll find the Ker-Bur-Rer Walk, which makes a nice loop around the park. As you go, you’ll see Eastern Grey Kangaroos on the open grassy woodlands, and other wildlife like echidnas, emus and native birds. This loop is about 4km long. For more walks at The Briars, click here.
2. Ruffey Lake Park Circuit
Swing by Ruffey Lake Park in Doncaster East, and go on a gentle loop around the well-maintained park. As you go, you’ll see views of the water, as well as local birds, and cheerful dogs in the off-leash area. The park itself has toilets, picnic areas, exercise stations and a playground, so you’ll be sure to find lots of families having a fun time outdoors. The Ruffey Lake Park Circuit is 4km long, and takes between 60 and 90 minutes to complete. Learn more about the park here.
3. Albert Park Loop
For great views of the city, stretch your legs on the Albert Park Loop. Bring your dog along, and go for a walk or a jog along the flat track. Admire the pretty lake as you go, and pack a picnic to enjoy while you’re there. If you’re driving there, you’ll find parking near the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre. The loop is 4.3km long.
4. Parkdale Beach via Mentone Beach
In this shorter leg of the much larger Bay Trail, you’ll make your way from Parkdale Beach to Mentone Beach, and then journey back again. Your journey begins and ends at the parking area at Parkdale Beach. Follow the shoreline along the concrete path and watch the waves gently lap against the sand. As you go, you’ll pass a dog beach, so bring your pup along for a fun day out. This easy loop is 4.2km long.
5. Yarra River Short City Loop
For a peaceful escape after work, take a lap around the Yarra River Short City Loop. In this trail along the river, you’ll start at Fed Square and make your way past Birrarung Marr. Loop back around at Morell Bridge, then continue back along the Yarra past the Royal Botanic Gardens and Alexandra Gardens. It’s about 4km long, and if you’d like to spend a little more time outside, there’s lots of opportunities with the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Top day hikes within one hour of Melbourne
1. Pinetree Walk
Pop over to Wilson Botanic Park in Berwick and take a stroll along Pinetree Walk. Meander around the park and admire over 1000 different native and exotic plant species, as well as peaceful ponds and thriving birdlife. When you’re not walking on the 2km trail, make use of the facilities, like playground and picnic area. Dogs are welcome as long as they’re on a leash.
2. Queenscliff Beach via Point Lonsdale Beach
In this out-and-back trail, you’ll make your along the coast to see the entrance to Port Phillip Bay, also known as ‘The Rip’. Drive over to the carpark near Point Lonsdale Lighthouse, then follow the paved footpath up to Queenscliff Beach and back. This trail is 9.3km long, and takes 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.
3. Safety Beach Foreshore
Take a day trip to the Mornington Peninsula and follow the trail on the Safety Beach Foreshore for scenic bay views. As you go along the path, you’ll find lots of spots to grab a cup of coffee, as well as important facilities like toilets and carparks. Turn around at Dromana Foreshore Reserve and make your way back to where you started. This trail is 6.3km long, and takes 1 to 1.5 hours to complete. If you’ve got a dog, there’s a dog-friendly beach just a little further north for you to try.
4. Wirrawilla Rainforest Trail
Nestled in Toolangi State Forest, you’ll find the Wirrawilla Rainforest Trail. Go for a tranquil walk through the rainforest along well-maintained boardwalks. Breath in the crisp air, listen to the sounds of water gently flowing nearby, and admire the lush ferns and tall gum trees around you. This easy walk is just 800 metres long, and takes less than an hour to complete.
5. Big Rock and Flinders Peak Walk
Spend a day in the You Yangs and make your way to the lookout locations, Big Rock and Flinders Peak. Start your journey at the Visitors Centre, and head to Big Rock first. This section is quite beginner-friendly. From there, continue on up to Flinders Peak. This section of the trail does get steep, so take your time, and remember to pause to admire the unique landscape. Dogs are welcome to come along, as long as they’re on a leash. The entire trail is 9km long, and takes about 3 hours to complete, but you’re welcome to split this trail into sections, with parking available at Big Rock and Flinders Peak.