Best Yarra Valley hikes and unmissable trails nearby

The Yarra Valley is best known for its wineries, but beyond the cellar doors lies a diverse network of hiking trails that reveal a different side of the region. Think riverside paths, forest climbs, and wildlife-filled tracks stretching into the Dandenong Ranges, each offering its own pace and scenery. This guide rounds up some of the best hikes in and around the Yarra Valley, helping you plan an outdoor escape that feels as refreshing as it is rewarding.

Scenic Yarra Valley hikes for every level

Mount Lofty Loop

• Location: Stephen Rd, Wonga Park VIC 3115, Australia
• Distance: 5km in length
• Elevation gain: 170m
• Duration: 1.5 – 2hours

Mount Lofty Loop is a well-rounded forest hike that combines riverside scenery with a steady climb to a rewarding lookout. Sections of the trail run right alongside the Yarra River, creating a natural setting before transitioning into a more rocky path as you gain elevation. It’s considered kid-friendly for active families and is also a good spot for birdwatching. Facilities are limited, with a free car park at the trailhead but no toilets or rubbish bins, and dogs are not permitted.

Mount Riddell

• Location: Rd 2, Healesville VIC 3777, Australia
• Distance: 13.7km in length
• Elevation gain: 689m
• Duration: 5 – 5.5 hours

Starting at the end of Mount Riddell Road, just a short drive from Healesville, this trail is known for its consistent uphill climb and suitability for trail running. The ascent builds gradually before becoming more intense, with the final third presenting the steepest and most challenging section. The track passes through forest for most of the route, you can go through a cooler rainforest foliage after around 4km. Its easy access from town makes it a convenient option for those looking for a more physically demanding hike in the area.

O’Shannassy Trail

• Location: Dee Rd, Millgrove VIC 3799, Australia
• Distance: 51.2km in length
• Elevation gain: 1,745m
• Duration: 15.5 – 17 hours

The O’Shannassy Trail is a historic route running from Don Valley to East Warburton through the Yarra Ranges National Park. It offers a relatively gentle and versatile track that can be explored on foot, by trail running, or by mountain or gravel bike. 

The trail passes through riverside and forest environments and is particularly noted for its rich wildlife, including kookaburras, eastern rosellas, lyrebirds, superb fairy-wrens, yellow-tailed black cockatoos, as well as wallabies and echidnas. Access is straightforward, with parking available at Yuonga Road or Dee Road car parks, and bathroom facilities provided, making it one of the more convenient and accessible outdoor options in the region.

More unmissable hikes near Yarra Valley

Eastern Dandenong Ranges Trail

• Location: 3G3F+25, Gembrook VIC 3783, Australia
• Distance: 13km in length
• Elevation gain: 43m
• Duration: 0.5 – 1 hour

The Eastern Dandenong Ranges Trail winds through the heart of Emerald Lake Park and Wright Forest, running alongside the iconic Puffing Billy Railway for a uniquely scenic experience. The track is rich in wildlife, with chances to spot wallabies and hear the distinctive call of kookaburras echoing through the forest, while colourful rosellas are commonly seen among the trees. Despite its natural appeal, the trail is quite minimal in facilities, with no designated picnic spots, rest areas, or toilets along the way.

Sherbrooke Forest Circuit Start

• Location: Welch Track, Belgrave VIC 3160, Australia
• Distance: 11.7km in length
• Elevation gain: 571m
• Duration: 4 – 4.5 hours

Beginning in the lush Sherbrooke Forest, this circuit takes you through towering Mountain Ash forests and dense fern gullies, creating a cool, shaded environment that feels deeply immersive. The area is well known for lyrebird sightings, adding to its appeal for wildlife enthusiasts. The track can become very muddy after rain, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended. Along the route, hikers can visit Sherbrooke Falls, with the picturesque Monbulk Creek flowing nearby, making the journey as rewarding as the destination.

Sugarloaf Reservoir

• Location: Christmas Hills VIC 3775, Australia
• Distance: 15.1km in length
• Elevation gain: 330m
• Duration: 4 – 4.5 hours

Encircling the expansive Sugarloaf Reservoir, this trail offers open views over the water and excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Swallows can often be seen skimming across the surface, while wedge-tailed eagles may circle overhead on rising thermals. On the ground, eastern grey kangaroos are frequently spotted grazing in groups near the shoreline. The area around Saddle Dam Picnic Area within Sugarloaf Reservoir Park provides a convenient access point to explore this scenic and wildlife-rich loop.

Essential tips for hiking in Yarra Valley 

• Check trail conditions before you go: Some tracks, especially in forested areas, can become muddy and slippery after rain.
• ​Plan your route: Map out your stops to ensure a smooth transition.
• Check access and parking: Some trails have designated car parks, while others may have limited access points.
• Know the trail rules: Not all hikes are dog-friendly, so check restrictions in advance to avoid issues.

End your Yarra Valley hike with a relaxing stop in Flowerdale Estate

After a day exploring the Yarra Valley’s trails, Flowerdale Estate offers a seamless transition from outdoor adventure to countryside relaxation. Set within the scenic Valley of a Thousand Hills, the estate combines natural surroundings with elevated comfort, from its restored 1840s homestead to landscaped gardens and peaceful creekside areas. 

Choose the accommodation that best suits your own style.