There are plenty of magnificent walks nestled within the Dandenong Ranges, making it difficult to decide which one to take. At the same time, I’ve walked along each of these trails and have enjoyed each experience thoroughly.
The Dandenong Ranges is roughly a 1-hour drive from Melbourne CBD.
With endless cafeteria options, lookouts, walking trails and attractions, everyone is bound to find something enjoyable nestled within Dandenong Ranges. For this reason, the Dandenongs are perfect for family day trips or even a weekend away for couples.
Read the list of the five best walks to decide on your next track to explore.
The Best Dandenong Ranges Walks
1. Glasgow Track, Fire Trail, Mount Dandenong
The Fire Trail is a well-known Dandenong Ranges Walk located at the base of the National Park. This challenging hike is also known as the Glasgow track and is a very steep incline.
Be aware, the trail is extremely rugged with lots of rocks; it’s best to wear comfortable hiking shoes with plenty of treads for safety.
Do not visit this track during or after rain as it will be slippery.
A substantial fitness challenge, the fire trail is worth the effort on arrival at the top of Burkes Lookout. Once you arrive at the top of Burkes lookout, enjoy panoramic views over Melbourne.
Moreover, the best place for parking is at Sheffield Rd; coordinates are: -37.831686, 145.333556
Walk up Glasgow Rd and continue along straight for the hike up the fire trail.
In addition, please be mindful of locals, take your rubbish with you, make little noise and park appropriately, according to signage.
2. Sherbrooke Falls Walk, Sherbrooke
The Sherbrooke falls walk located in the Sherbrooke forest is a much less populated attraction, to some of the other well-known walking trails within the Dandenongs. The trail is also known as the O’Donohue track.
Choose the length of your hike by using different trails within the forest. Furthermore, take Hillclimb track or Ridge track to view the Sherbrooke Falls. The walk is roughly 2.5km return but can be lengthened or shortened depending on the tracks taken.
This fantastic Dandenong Ranges walk is enjoyable with family or friends; make sure to listen out for the lyrebirds.
The best access to the track is via O’Donohue picnic ground. There is plenty of parking available, but it may get busy during peak periods. Enjoy a walk amongst the tall mountain ash trees and finish up with a picnic at O’Donohue picnic ground.
See if you can find this tree 
Walking along the Ridge Track
3. Mathias Track, Olinda
Mathias track located in Olinda is a relatively easy walking track that is dog-friendly. While dogs must be on-lead along the track, they can roam free on the Old Olinda Golf Course.
The wide walking trail makes it great for groups. There are roughly five parking spaces available at Falls Rd and Mathias Rd, making this trail best to enjoy during the week, as it gets busy on weekends.
In addition, you can enjoy views of the Yarra Valley at the Old Olinda Golf Course.
It’s roughly a 5-km walk starting at Mathias Rd, which includes a stroll around the golf course.
4. Dandenong Ranges Loop, Olinda
The Dandenong Ranges Loop begins at the same location as the Mathias track in Olinda. With this in mind, be sure that you park at the space provided at Falls Rd and Mathias Rd.
The walk is roughly 12 km and, there are a few inclines, but it is a relatively simple hike. Unfortunately, it isn’t suitable for children as parts of the track must be done along the road. Be sure to pay attention when crossing the roads as vehicles might not expect you there.
This Dandenong Ranges Walk is a satisfying physical challenge and will take you a unique route throughout the Ranges.
I recommend using the app ‘All Trails’, which gives a detailed route and includes a map, therefore making your trail walking easy.
Directions:
-Begin at Mathias Road
-Continue to the end of Mathias Road and turn left on Poplar Track
-Take the first left and continue along until you arrive at an intersection
-Turn right onto Manna Gum Track
-Walk across Boundary Rd and continue along Prices Road
-Take a left at Prices Road
-Turn left at Chamberlain Track
-Turn left along Silvan Rd
-Take a left on Olinda Creek Rd
-Turn left on Georges Rd
-Take a right on Bargess Rd
-Turn left on Bartlett Rd
-Turn left on Falls Rd
-You will arrive at the starting destination
5. 1000 Steps Kokoda Trail, Upper Ferntree Gully
A well-known and popular tourist attraction, the 1000 steps is easily the most popular Dandenong Ranges Walk. You can find this Dandenong Ranges Walk within a picturesque location that everyone will enjoy. The 3km hike has areas of steep incline, making it a considerable physical challenge for all ages.
Keep in mind this trail can get very slippery after rain. Furthermore, it’s best to avoid this track on weekends as it gets extremely busy and the trail going up isn’t very wide.
Once you’ve arrived at the top of the 1000 steps, take the lyrebird track to the right to return to the car park. There are toilet facilities available and a great playground for children to enjoy.
Address: 1000 Steps, 1A Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd, Tremont VIC 3785
Wrapping Up The List of Dandenong Ranges Walks
In conclusion, there are endless opportunities for fantastic hikes throughout the Dandenong Ranges, making it challenging to decide where to explore.
Above all, I’m sure you’ll be able to find a wonderful place to explore for your next adventure from the list above.
Have you been to any of these places in The Dandenong Ranges? Comment your experience below; I’d love to hear what you thought about it.
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