Sick of the daily grind? Ready for an escape? Swap your latte for a thermos, your loafers for boots and your briefcase for a backpack it’s time to go hiking. Not only is hiking a great way to get the perfect Instagram shot, destress and unwind, but a recent study found that hikers had improved cognitive function. Everyone knows that Melbourne is home to some of the best coffee in the world but it is a hidden secret that it also has an abundance of scenic walking tracks and bush walks on offer.
If hiking is a new addition to your repertoire make sure you read our beginners tips and tricks before setting off. We’ve discovered the eight best walks and hikes in and around Melbourne so now it’s just up to you to get exploring.
8. 1000 Steps Kokoda Walk
Location: Dandenong Ranges National Park
Distance: 4.3km
Difficulty: Moderate
One of the closest hikes to the Melbourne CBS the 1000 Steps Walk will set your glutes on fire. The memorial walk includes (lots of) stone steps and spectacular views of the Dandenong ranges and finishes at One Tree Hill. It is a popular spot for pre-season training for elite athletes so keep your eyes up!
7. Point Nepean Coastal Walk
Location: Mornington Peninsula
Distance: 6km
Difficulty: Moderate
Located at the very tip of the Mornington Peninsula the Point Nepean Coastal Walk is one of Victoria’s most spectacular coastal trails. Wander past secluded beaches, bays, coastal bushland and not one but three spectacular lookouts.
6. La La Falls and Walk
Location: Warburton Valley
Distance: 6km one way
Difficulty: Moderate
People have been hiking through the Yarra State Forest since the early 1880s and it is easy to understand why. Hike through deep rainforest alongside Four Mile Creek to the spectacular La La Falls. The round-trip will take you anywhere between 1-1.5 hours depending on your fitness level.
5. Bushrangers Bay Walk
Location: Morning Peninsula National Park
Distance: 5.5km one way
Difficulty: Moderate
Just a 60-minute drive south of Melbourne this cliff-top walk is hopping with kangaroos. It is a great option for a weekend with views across the ominous Cape Schanck and the Banksia Forest.
4. Mount Oberon Summit
Location: Wilsons Promontory National Park
Distance: 6.8km
Difficulty: Moderate
Fancy yourself as a bit of a morning person? Climb to the Mt Oberon Summit to witness an unforgettable sunrise. The climb is worth the early morning wake-up for spectacular 360-degree views of Wilsons Promontory National Park.
3. Toorongo Falls Circuit Walk
Location: West Gippsland
Distance: 2.2km
Difficulty: Easy
Escape the city and explore the best that Gippsland has to offer. You’ll get two (waterfalls) for the price of one this walk not only passes the Toorongo Falls but also the Amphitheatre Falls. This walk isn’t just brimming with great views but also wildlife, keep an eye out for sugar gliders, possums and cockatoos.
2. Macedon Ranges Walking Trail
Location: Mount Macedon
Distance: 18.8km
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
If you’re up for an all-day adventure then the Macedon Ranges Walking Trail is for you. This track covers a variety of terrains you’ll go off-track, past lookouts, across rivers and even on cables (if you like!) so is best for those with plenty of hiking experience.
1. Mt Stapylton Loop Walk
Location: Grampians National Park
Distance: 4km return
Difficulty: Moderate
Explore the hidden secrets of the Grampians National Park a 3-hour drive from Melbourne. It’s well worth the trip with many hikers returning time and time again to test out a new trail. This is a challenging walk that climbs through the Grampian National Park with views overlooking the deep Fyans Valley, mountains and waterfalls.
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