Explore stunning hiking trails of Mount Donna Buang

Hiking and Winter Activities at Mount Donna Buang

Mount Donna Buang, situated in Yarra Ranges National Park, rises to an elevation of 1,245 metres. At the summit, visitors can enjoy panoramic views from a 21-metre high lookout tower that overlooks Melbourne, the Yarra Valley, the Dandenong and Cathedral Ranges, Mount Baw Baw, and the Alps. This area is a popular picnic spot and serves as a starting point for various mountain walks.

The picnic area at the summit is well-equipped with gas barbecues, fireplaces, picnic tables, toilets, and a lookout, making it a convenient spot for a meal or rest before exploring the trails.

One of the highlights of Mount Donna Buang is the Rainforest Gallery, which features a 40-metre long observation platform—one of only three in Australia—elevating visitors 15 metres above the rainforest floor. A 350-metre elevated walkway provides a unique perspective of the lush environment, showcasing 65-metre tall Mountain Ash trees, ancient Myrtle Beech trees up to 400 years old, ferns, mosses, and other plants. There are several viewing spots along the walkway where you can pause and listen to the sounds of Cement Creek as it flows towards the Yarra River.

Parking near the information shelter and toilets accommodates approximately 20 vehicles on a sealed surface with a slight cross slope. Note that there is no designated disabled parking in this area. During significant snowfall, parking at the summit may be unavailable, and the summit is not suitable for large buses or coaches. Larger car parks, located about 300 metres from the summit, are available for buses or coaches, though access from these car parks to the summit with wheelchairs or heavy strollers is not recommended due to the distance and gradient of the road.

Dogs are not permitted in Mount Donna Buang or Yarra Ranges National Park. In winter, the summit transforms into a snow play area, with three toboggan runs opening when there is adequate snow. Mount Donna Buang, approximately a two-hour drive from Melbourne, typically receives snowfall from June to August, making it a popular destination for snow play on weekends or when fresh snow falls.

During winter, visitors should be aware that Donna Buang Road can become very busy, and delays may occur. The road may close if conditions become hazardous or if the summit car parks are full. For safety reasons, only plastic toboggans are allowed on the summit; skis, snowboards, and toboggans made of materials other than plastic are not permitted.

Want to find the best trails in Mount Donna Buang for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails for walking, hiking, running, and more.