10 popular hikes near Melbourne: Hand picked for you

Craving an escape from the city? You don’t need to venture far from Melbourne to find adventure. In just a few hours, you can trade towering buildings for towering trees, bustling streets for babbling brooks, and car horns for chirping birds. Ready to swap your latte for a Camelbak? Lace up your boots, pack your wanderlust, and join me on a journey through 10 of the most stunning day hikes near Melbourne.

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual stroller, this diverse list offers something for everyone. Imagine yourself winding through temperate rainforests, scaling dramatic mountains, or strolling along breathtaking coastlines – all within an easy drive from the city. So, ditch the concrete jungle and prepare to be amazed by the natural wonders that await just beyond Melbourne’s doorstep. I’ve picked out 10 popular hikes near Melbourne for you to explore. Let’s explore!

1. You Yangs Regional Park

East West Walk

Unleash epic fun at You Yangs, a dog-friendly wonderland near Melbourne/Geelong. Explore diverse trails with your pup, like the scenic 4.2km East West Walk. Craving more? You Yangs caters to all – hikers, bikers, rock climbers, birdwatchers, picnic lovers – with defined trails, 50km+ mtb tracks, and breathtaking scenery. Ready for a challenge? Challenge yourself on the 3km Flinders Peak Walk that rewards you with the park’s highest point and panoramic vistas. Remember, responsible pet ownership is key: Leash your pup and leave no trace. Unleash fun, your pup will love it.

• Length: 4.2km
• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Grade: 3 (Moderate)
• Style: Circuit

> Start your adventure here: East West Walk and Flinders Peak Walk

2. Cape Woolamai Faunal Reserve

Cape Woolamai Circuit Walk

Hike Phillip Island’s southern tip, Cape Woolamai, for breathtaking clifftop views & ocean panoramas. Witness daring surfers at Woolamai Beach & spot shy shearwaters (migratory marvels!). Choose the full Cape Woolamai Circuit for panoramic glory, or opt for shorter options. All trails start near the carpark, leading you along the scenic beach. Don’t miss the island’s highest point & largest shearwater colony – a spectacle between October & April!

• Length: 8.5km
• Duration: 3.5 hours
• Grade: 3 (Moderate)
• Style: Circuit

> Start your adventure here: Cape Woolamai Circuit Walk

3. Marysville State Forest

Keppell Lookout & Steavenson Falls

Kick off your adventure with a stunning cascade! Begin at Steavenson Falls car park, where Victoria’s tallest waterfall awaits. Follow the Keppel Lookout signs, navigating scenic dirt tracks and charming hills. Be prepared for potential mud after rain, and pack water, snacks, and sturdy shoes. Ascend steadily, passing the De La Rue lookout for glimpses of the surrounding landscapes. Conquer the halfway point – the Keppel Lookout – and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. On a clear day, witness the majestic Cathedral Ranges unfold before you.

Descend towards Falls Road, savoring the journey back through nature. Feeling energetic? Add a magical detour through the lush fern gully for a true nature immersion. This moderate challenge offers both scenic beauty and physical reward, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.

• Length: 15.5km
• Duration: 5 hours
• Grade: 3 (Moderate)
• Style: Circuit

> Start your adventure here: Keppell Lookout & Steavenson Falls

4. Werribee Gorge State Park

Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk

Embark on the scenic Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk, one of the most rugged hikes close to Melbourne. Bbeginning at Meikles Point Picnic Area, traverse the historic water channel, reaching Needles Beach for a rest. Follow the trail along the river to Blackwood Pool and ascend a rocky ridge to the Western Viewpoint, capturing panoramic river views. Continue eastward past Picture Point to Eastern Viewpoint, offering a view of the island. Choose between the short circuit trail or extend the journey to the Quarry Car Park. Return via Myers Road, crossing shallow gullies, and descend Pattersons Spur to Meikles Point. For a moderately challenging hike with stunning scenery, Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk awaits. Wear sturdy shoes, long pants, and bring water and snacks for an unforgettable adventure.

• Length: 8.5km
• Duration: 3.5 hours
• Grade: 3 (Moderate)
• Style: Circuit

> Start your adventure here: Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk

5. Hanging Rock Reserve

Hanging Rock Summit Walk

Nestled in folklore as the possible refuge of bushranger ‘Mad Dog’ Morgan, this petite volcano, formed by ancient lava upheaval, gained fame through the iconic Australian novel and film, “Picnic at Hanging Rock.” The mysterious legend of the Valentine’s Day disappearance of schoolgirls and their teacher in 1901 continues to captivate. The granite tors, caves, and overhanging boulders create an eerie atmosphere, intensified by its association with the myth. Ascend to the 105-meter summit for a panoramic view of the flat plain, farmland, and the dense Macedon and Cobaw ranges. Explore the Hanging Rock Discovery Centre for insightful exhibits on the area’s history and geology.

• Length: 2km
• Duration: 1 hour
• Grade: 3 (Moderate)
• Style: Circuit

> Start your adventure here: Hanging Rock Summit Walk

6. Brisbane Ranges National Park

Ted Errey Nature Circuit

Explore the unexpected beauty of the Brisbane Ranges on the Ted Errey Nature Circuit. Though not challenging, this walk reveals stunning scenery, diverse landscapes, and captivating vistas. Following sections of the Anakie Gorge walk, the circuit features well-maintained tracks, small creek crossings, boardwalks, and rocky sections. Regenerating since the 2006 bushfires, the trail starts and ends at the Anakie Gorge Picnic Area, marked by blue triangles. Keep an eye out for side trails offering spectacular views of the ranges and farmlands. In spring, the landscape comes alive with vibrant wildflowers, songbirds, and the possibility of spotting an elusive echidna.

• Length: 12.6km
• Duration: 3 hours
• Grade: 3 (Moderate)
• Style: Circuit

> Start your adventure here: Ted Errey Nature Circuit

7. Lerderderg State Park

Lerderderg Gorge Circuit Walk

The Lerderderg (or Lerdy) is one of the most rugged and remote parks close to Melbourne. Embark on the Lerderderg Gorge Circuit from Mackenzies Flat Picnic Area, immersing yourself in Lerderderg State Park’s rugged beauty. Follow the Lerderderg River to Graham’s Dam, an ideal spot for a refreshing swim, with the initial river stretch offering a well-maintained pathway. For a challenge, take Link Track No. 2 after crossing the river at Graham’s Dam. Ascend the steep spur, navigating rock scrambles and following orange markers for breathtaking views. Traverse the Blackwood Ranges via the vehicle-friendly Blackwood Ranges Track, then descend into the gorge on Link Track No. 1. Retrace your steps along the river track from Graham’s Dam to Mackenzies Flat Picnic Area, completing this thrilling and diverse Lerderderg Gorge Circuit.

• Length: 8.2km
• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Grade: 4 (Hard)
• Style: Circuit

> Start your adventure here: Lerderderg Gorge Circuit Walk

8. Mornington Peninsula National Park

Bushrangers Bay & Gunnamatta

This stunning day hike combines dramatic clifftop vistas with secluded beaches and lush coastal vegetation. Start by following the Two Bays Walking Track from Boneo Road, savoring views and Banksia groves before reaching the sheltered cove of Bushrangers Bay. Next, follow the Bushrangers Bay Track towards Cape Schanck, renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery. Marvel at the wild waves crashing against jagged rocks and soak in panoramic ocean views. From Cape Schanck, delve into the Moonah woodland along a dirt track, leading towards your final destination: Gunnamatta Beach. Take a detour at Fingal Picnic Area for refreshments, or explore the secluded Fingal Beach via a challenging stairway descent. Embrace the final leg of your journey, traversing dense coastal vegetation with three lookout points offering stunning seaside vistas. Finally, emerge onto the golden sands of Gunnamatta Beach, where you can relax, swim, or simply savor the beauty of the ocean.

• Length: 16km
• Duration: 5 hours
• Grade: 3 (Moderate)
• Style: One Way

> Start your adventure here: Bushrangers Bay & Gunnamatta

9. Macedon Ranges

Macedon Ranges Walking Trail

Hike the Macedon Ranges: From a leisurely start to breathtaking summits. Begin at Mount Macedon Hotel: A paved road leads to the gravel trail, marking the start of your adventure. Ascend the mountain: Zig-zag through the trees on the steep climb, rewarded with stunning views as you approach the summit. Reach the top: Marvel at the Memorial Cross and panoramic landscapes. Traverse the Western Face: Walk the flat path through the messmate forest, passing fire trails to reach McGregors Picnic Ground for a scenic lunch.

Challenge yourself on Camels Hump: Turn right at the junction, ascend for panoramic views, and explore rocky outcrops before rejoining the trail. Discover tranquility at Sanatorium Lake: Follow the well-formed track through dense forest, enjoying the serene man-made lake teeming with wildlife. Ascend and descend Mount Towrong: Conquer the short climb for panoramic views, then descend the steep, rocky trail to the valley below. Follow the rocky trail and gravel road through residential streets back to Mount Macedon Hotel, completing your epic journey.

• Length: 19km
• Duration: 6-7 hours
• Grade: 3 (Moderate)
• Style: Circuit

> Start your adventure here: Macedon Ranges Walking Trail

10. Cathedral Range State Park

Cathedral & Jawbones Hike

Embark on a thrilling hike through Cathedral Range, a must-visit for enthusiasts seeking a challenging yet rewarding adventure. Begin at Neds Gully Campground car park, crossing the road to follow the marked trail. Neds Gully Track starts gently, steepening towards Neds Saddle, offering sweeping views. Opt for a side trip to Neds Peak for an elevated perspective. Take the Cathedral Track, a steep but short section leading to a ridge saddle. Consider an optional side trip to Cathedral Peak for breathtaking views. Proceed south on the challenging Ridge Track, marked by indicators and rock scrambling, enjoying panoramic views.

At the 2-kilometer mark, find the North Jawbone Track junction. Descend gently, ascend the peak, and return. Head left at the junction, then right towards The Farmyard. Ascend South Jawbone Peak for spectacular views, return to The Farmyard, and take a right at the junction. Descend into the valley, following a steep but clear trail. After 1 kilometer, reach the Jawbone Carpark. Spot the Saint Bernards Track on your left, taking it for about 1 kilometer to Cooks Mill. Find the Little River Track near the campsite, initially meandering through trees before transitioning to a dirt road for ¾ kilometers. Re-enter the bush for a pleasant walk back to the Neds Gully Carpark. Cathedral Range ensures an unforgettable hiking experience amid stunning landscapes.

• Length: 13km
• Duration: 5 hours
• Grade: 4 (Hard)
• Style: Circuit

> Start your adventure here: Cathedral & Jawbones Hike

With this guide, you’ve got ten incredible day hikes near Melbourne at your fingertips, waiting to whisk you away from the urban jungle and into the heart of nature. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a casual explorer, there’s a perfect trail out there for you, offering diverse landscapes, stunning scenery, and unforgettable experiences.

From the dramatic clifftops and secluded beaches of Mornington Peninsula to the towering peaks and panoramic vistas of the Cathedral Ranges, each hike on this list promises something unique. So pack your backpack, grab your camera, and prepare to be amazed by the natural wonders that lie just beyond Melbourne’s doorstep.

Remember, responsible hiking is key. Respect the environment, check current conditions, check the weather and bushfire alerts, stay on marked trails, and leave no trace. Most importantly, let someone know before you go.