The Dandenong's Pixie Waltz

Is there a more enchanted forest than the Dandenongs? Tall mountain ash stretch to the sky whilst Gondwana ferns decorate the mossy gullies. With such Tolkien like scenery, the bushwalker soon becomes convinced that pixies must surely live among the ferns.

This hike follows little used trails from Upper Ferntree Gully Railway Station to Mt Dandenong Hotel. Mainly on track, with the occasional wombat trail, the route has a total elevation gain of over 1,000m. Thankfully, not all this elevation comes at once. Rather there's a little uphill, then a little downhill, and so it goes until you reach your destination.

On the way there are several sights. There's the Doongalla Picnic Ground, set in an English garden next to an historic homestead. It's probably the most romantic picnic ground you can find. There's also a number of hillbillies who live on the route and if you're lucky to get one talking, you will be spun a yarn about the history of the area.

From Mt Dandenong Hotel a bus will take you back to the start following a charming route that is worth the price of the Myki pass alone. On weekends buses leave hourly. However, I suggest you delay the bus trip and take advantage of a late lunch at the Pig and Whistle Tavern. The Lemon Meringue Pie is spectacular.