Burke’s Lookout in Mount Dandenong is easily the best lookout close to Melbourne. Moreover, you’ll need to head to the beginning of the Dandenong Ranges to enjoy this magnificent viewpoint, but it’s absolutely worth the journey.
It’s become a favourite hangout location for many Melbournians and it’s clear to see why. Upon arrival at this lookout, you’ll get to enjoy jaw-dropping views over the suburbs of Melbourne, Port Phillip Bay and Melbourne City.
Furthermore, it’s one of the absolute must-visit locations when spending time in Melbourne! Let’s dive into everything you need to know before visiting this iconic location.
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Where Is Burke’s Lookout?
Burke’s Lookout is right on the edge of the Dandenong Ranges, situated in Mount Dandenong. Moreover, it’s a short drive from the equally as famous Sky High Lookout, but this is the free option.
You can access this lookout from a number of ways including making use of multiple walking trails or driving straight up to one of the upper car parks.
This Mount Dandenong Lookout is open from 6 AM to 10 PM daily. Please do not visit during hours outside of this timeframe out of respect for the neighbouring properties.
Next up, I go into detail including the different ways in which you can reach the lookout.
Address: Burke’s Lookout, Osprey Road, Mount Dandenong VIC 3767
How to Get To Burke’s Lookout
Now, there are a number of ways in which you can reach the lookout. And, depending on what kind of route you’d like to take, this can change in a multitude of ways.
From hiking up the face of the hill to wandering a short track and to driving all the way in, you can find a route best suited to you.
Firstly, the best way to reach the Mount Dandenong lookout is to park your vehicle at Burke’s Lookout Carpark. Moreover, this is a safe spot to pull over and park your vehicle while you take a short hike along Kyeema track to reach the lookout.
You’ll need to wander along the Kyeema track for about 200 metres to reach the central opening of the viewpoint. However, this is the easiest and safest way to get the lookout.
Secondly, many people like to head up Eyre Road to get the ‘quickest’ way to the lookout. And, it is the closest road access to the viewpoint. However, the issue with this spot is that there is very minimal parking and loads of no-stopping zones. I would recommend obeying the parking signs as there are lots of parking fines being handed out as of late.
Nonetheless, you can get a reasonably close park here, but there’s a bit of a catch. If you want to reach the lookout on the shortest trail, you need to use the dodgy path beside the metal fence to get there. It’s incredibly steep and can be quite slippery.
Alternatively, if you would like to hike to Burke’s Lookout, check out the information in the next section of the post.
Feel free to download my image of the lookout here
Hike to the Top
There are a couple of hiking trails that you can make use of to reach Burke’s Lookout. And, this is a rewarding way to enjoy the Mount Dandenong lookout as it requires a fair bit of work.
Firstly, if you want the toughest workout, you can give the Glasgow Track / Fire Trail a go. This is the most direct route with an incredible elevation gain. And, you will need to be comfortable climbing up large rocks at a very steep incline.
Secondly, you can do a much longer loop track that will take you on an 8.4km adventure. Moreover, this is an excellent way to get some exercise and enjoy the beautiful views from Burke’s Lookout.
If you would like to see the route, I recommend checking out this website here for directions.
Kyeema Track
Kyeema Track is a fantastic walking trail that takes you alongside some of the most stunning viewpoints near Burke’s Lookout.
Moreover, the track is 2km each way but is an excellent way to enjoy views along the Dandenongs. Furthermore, this track can also take you to the Sky High Lookout and Kyeema Memorial.
I think this trail is a fantastic addition to your visit to the viewpoint!
Tip: Check out Mascara’s Lookout along the way. It’s like a lesser-known version of Burke’s Lookout and is an awesome under-the-radar spot to hang out.
Is Burke’s Lookout Worth Visiting?
Nowadays, almost everyone seems to know about the incredible Burke’s Lookout in Mount Dandenong. However, don’t let that deter you, as there is a good reason why it’s so well known.
This Dandenong Ranges Lookout is absolutely worth a visit and is an awesome activity for any time of the day. Besides, it’s great for singles, couples, friends or families to visit!
However, I would recommend trying to visit during the week especially early on in the week as it can become extremely busy over the weekends. And, it tends to attract a young crowd that may like to cause a bit of trouble.
The Best Sunset Spot in Melbourne
This Dandenong Ranges Lookout could quite possibly be the best sunset spot in Melbourne. You will get to enjoy Westerly views over the entirety of Melbourne and the CBD. It’s pretty spectacular once you get up here.
Therefore, you can watch the whole of Melbourne transition from afternoon to night if you’re up here for sunset. It’s pretty incredible watching the city and suburbs light up as another day comes to a close.
Furthermore, this lookout sits at 612 metres above sea level so you can be sure to get some pretty awesome views. Finally, keep in mind, there are no facilities along this lookout as it’s quite literally a dirt track.
Additional Activities in the Dandenong Ranges
If you’re looking for some more things to do while visiting Mount Dandenong or the Dandenong Ranges, then I have some ideas on things you can do. Check out this list, and feel free to click the links for more information:
- Alfred Nicholas Gardens
- Various walking trails
- Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden
- Sky High, Mount Dandenong
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, Burke’s Lookout is an excellent place to enjoy stunning views of Melbourne and an awesome place to watch the sunset.
It’s pretty incredible how small everything looks when you view it from a distance! Not to mention, it’s one of my all-time favourite lookouts in and around Melbourne.
So, be sure to check it out if you’re spending any time in Melbourne, it’s absolutely worth a visit and is an awesome free activity to enjoy!
Finally, if you wish to discover more from Victoria, feel free to check out this section of my blog which is loaded with great activities, itineraries, the best places to visit and so much more!
Read more:
The Best Summer Activities in Melbourne: 13 Things to Do in Melbourne
Romantic Getaways Victoria
