Dandenong Ranges Trail is a 74km, grade 3 hike located in the Dandenong Ranges National Park, Victoria. The hike should take around 5-7 days to complete.
Hike summary
The Dandenong Ranges Trail is a multiday, long distance walk through the beautiful Dandenong Ranges on the edge of Melbourne.
The trail is not meant as a pure 'bush walk' but rather an exploration of the forests, towns and gardens that attract so many people to the Hills. This is low impact, grassroots travel that will support local businesses without adding to congestion in the Hills.
There is no camping in this area so the idea is to use the many excellent accommodation providers, restaurants, and businesses located close to the trail. Or use public transport to complete the trail as a series of day walks.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 612 m
Min elevation: 87 m
Total climbing: 3600 m
Total descent: -3806 m
Tips
There are plenty of accommodation providers along the Trail, but also check airbnb.com for more budget options.
Full details can be found on the official website: dandenongrangestrail.com.au
Gear you might need
As well as including the Ten Essentials, my planning, food and packing checklists provide an summary of things to consider on your day, overnight and multi-day hikes. Every person and every hike is different, so customise your kit according to your needs. Download your free checklists here >>
Location
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Getting there
The famous Puffing Billy Steam Train delivers you to the starting point in Gembrook. Take the metro train to the last station at Belgrave then take Puffing Billy from there.
There are also public buses that go from Belgrave to Gembrook.
About the region
The forested slopes of the Dandenong Ranges are a place of tranquil forest walks, quaint hilltop towns and charismatic animals such as lyrebirds and wallabies. Conquer the famous 1000 Steps, discover Olinda Falls and enjoy commanding views over Melbourne and the Yarra Valley.
The Dandenong Ranges is a rainforest getaway on Melbourne's doorstep. A short drive or train ride from the city you will find steep volcanic hills covered in stands of the world's tallest flowering tree, the Mountain Ash. Living among the greenery are wallabies, lyrebirds, wombats and the Powerful Owl so please ensure you leave your dogs at home to avoid disturbing the local wildlife.
The mountains of the Dandenong Ranges offer stunning views across Melbourne. Waterfalls are also a feature of this cool temperate rainforest. Olinda Falls and Sherbrooke Falls are best after rain. Just don't forget to wear hiking boots.
Gallery
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.