Californian Redwood Forest Walk: Immerse Yourself in Towering Trees. The Californian Redwood Forest walk offers a delightful escape into a unique pocket of the Yarra Ranges National Park. Located just a 10-minute drive from Warburton, this 2-kilometer loop trail is an easy 45-minute walk, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts of all ages.
Established in the 1930s as part of a hydrological experiment, the Redwood Forest boasts towering Californian Redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) reaching up to 50 meters. While not quite reaching the heights of their native North American cousins (up to 115 meters), these impressive trees create a captivating landscape.
The forest showcases a fascinating interplay between introduced and native flora. The Californian Redwoods stand alongside remnants of the original eucalypt forest, their contrasting forms adding depth and character to the landscape.
Beyond the redwoods, the trail meanders alongside Cement Creek, offering glimpses of native ferns and eucalypts. Keep an eye out for vibrant native orchids and the occasional Monarch Butterfly flitting through the dappled sunlight. During summer months, listen for the calls of Grey-headed Flying Foxes roosting in the canopy.
For a longer exploration, venture beyond the main redwood stand and follow Cement Creek to its confluence with the Yarra River. This scenic perimeter walk boasts diverse native birdlife and lush vegetation. Alternatively, explore the nearby O'Shannassay Aqueduct Trail, a popular spot for walking or cycling.
With its gentle terrain, towering trees, and diverse wildlife, the Californian Redwood Forest Walk provides a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this unique environment and discover the beauty of this historical experiment turned natural wonder.
- Due to its popularity, consider visiting during off-peak times, particularly on weekends, school holidays, and public holidays.
- Remember, dogs are not permitted within the National Park boundaries.
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Total distance: 1974 m
Max elevation: 245 m
Min elevation: 198 m
Total climbing: 90 m
Total descent: -90 m
Getting to the trailhead: Yarra Ranges National Park.
Reaching the Californian Redwood Forest trailhead is straightforward. From Melbourne, follow the Warburton Highway for approximately 90 minutes. Turn left onto Cement Creek Road, located just a few kilometres before reaching Warburton township. Follow this unsealed road for roughly 1 kilometre until you arrive at a small car park and the official trail entrance. Remember, this is a popular destination, so consider carpooling or using public transport during peak times.
Closest towns to this walk: Belgrave, Emerald, Healesville, Lilydale, Marysville, Monbulk, Montrose, Mount Dandenong, Olinda, Warburton
Situated between Melbourne and the Victorian Alps, the Yarra Ranges National Park is a place of epic views, majestic rainforest scenery and fun-packed snowplay. Enjoy the panorama from Mount Donna Buang, or go deeper into the park on the Black Spur Drive, and wind through towering Mountain Ash forests to Lake Mountain.
The Yarra Ranges spans an extensive, mountainous area of cool temperate forest around the three towns of Marysville, Healesville and Warburton. This national park is home to the world's tallest flowering tree, the Mountain Ash, which towers over lush tree ferns and mossy Myrtle Beech. Dark gullies are home to clear streams which feed the Yarra River and major reservoirs from which Melbourne draws its drinking water.
The Yarra Ranges boasts some stunning lookouts, one of the best being Mount Donna Buang. From here you can see awesome views of Westernport Bay and Port Phillip - or walk the Rainforest Gallery and see the Mountain Ash from a different perspective. In the winter, Mount Donna Buang is Melbourne's closest winter playground. Many Melburnians have enjoyed their first sight of snow here through the years.
Healesville is the start of the Black Spur Drive, a short but beautiful scenic car journey. The road winds through majestic Mountain Ash forest to Narbethong, passing a number of pleasant walking trails and picnic areas, such as Donnelly’s Weir, Dom Dom Saddle and Maroondah Reservoir Park.
Looking for more walks in or near Yarra Ranges National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
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