The Warburton River Walk is a beautiful, gentle 5km walk that is easy and accessible. If you want to stretch your legs a bit more it can easily be turned into a substantially longer 16km circuit.
The Yarra River is the lifeblood of Melbourne and it is no more beautiful than in its upper reaches here in the Warburton Valley where the water runs clear before it crosses the clay flats further downstream. Depending on the time of the year, the river can boast a series of swift rapids or just be bubbling along gently - either way it's always idyllic.
With the walk being right in the middle of Warburton village, experiencing the Yarra couldn't be easier. You can start at any of the four bridges that cross the river behind the township but we recommend you head for the iconic Swing Bridge, one of the few examples of this type of bridge in Victoria.
Once on the northern bank the route tracks the contours of the river as it snakes along the valley floor in the shadow of Mount Donna Buang - a spectacular site and one of the few mountains in Australia that stands right above a town. Information boards dotting the walk provide deeper insight into the river and surrounds and there are seats, BBQs and picnic spots along the banks that encourage a slow pace. Crossing to the southern bank brings you back to where you began.
No matter if you had your arms swinging in a brisk, pulse-raising walk or simply strolled along the picturesque river stopping frequently, there is no better way to finish than taking advantage of coffee and cake.
For more information about this trail go to Visit Warburton
More information
For more information about this trail go to Visit Warburton
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.
Can be done any time of the year.
Total distance: 5396 m
Max elevation: 187 m
Min elevation: 143 m
Total climbing: 133 m
Total descent: -127 m
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Alternative Trail
For a longer option, follow the Walk It guide until you get to Warburton Hwy but instead of doubling back turn left onto the bridge to cross the river again and sweep around onto the underpass that crosses below the Highway to pick up the trail on the other side. Follow this behind the caravan park and in and out of bushland beside the river for 2km before exiting to the left. Cross Woods Point Rd with care and turn right onto the footpath. Follow this path for 1.3km until you cross a bridge over the Yarra and arrive at the intersection with Riverside Dr. Turn right onto Riverside Dr and follow that for 3.3km until it becomes Kellys Rd. 850m later cross the Warburton Hwy with care and re-join the Walk It guide at Point 7.
Total distance: 13255 m
Max elevation: 187 m
Min elevation: 143 m
Total climbing: 206 m
Total descent: -200 m
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From Melbourne City to Yarra Valley (via Eastlink Tollway) - Make your way onto the Eastern Freeway and travel towards Ringwood. The Eastern Freeway turns into the Eastlink Toolway after Springvale Road. If you have an Eastlink or Citylink pass, continue on the Eastlink Tollway and go through the Mullum Mullum tunnel - make sure to stay in the left lane as the turnoff is straight after the tunnel ends. Turn left after exiting the tunnel towards Ringwood. Turn left onto the Maroondah Highway towards Lilydale. Once past Lilydale, turn right at the Warburton Highway turnoff to explore the Warburton Valley. Follow Old Warburton Rd to Irruka Rd in Warburton. Continue to Station Road in Warburton.
By Public Transport Public Transport Victoria has regular trains heading to Lilydale Station. From Lilydale Station, catch a Martyrs bus to travel to Warburton .
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Yarra Ranges National Park
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While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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