Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the tranquil beauty of the Warburton River Walk, an easy 5km circuit nestled in the heart of Warburton village, Victoria. This Grade 2 trail meanders along the clear, bubbling Yarra River, offering stunning views of Mount Donna Buang and the opportunity to cross the iconic Swing Bridge. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or brisk walk, this trail, packed with information boards and picnic spots, is an excellent way to appreciate Warburton's natural charm. Don't forget to indulge in a coffee and cake post-hike!

Length:

5km

Duration:

1.75 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 187m

Min elevation: 143m

Total Ascent: 133m

Start: Warburton Main Street

End: Warburton Main Street

Warburton

Victoria

Nearby town: Warburton

From state capital: 74km

Latitude: -37.75411444

Longitude: 145.6875413

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6,670 views

Hike overview

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

Tips

Can be done any time of the year.

Trail features

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Walk map and GPX file

Warburton Township Loop Walk (5km)

Total distance: 5396 m
Max elevation: 187 m
Min elevation: 143 m
Total climbing: 133 m
Total descent: -127 m

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

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Gladysdale, Launching Place, Millgrove, Reefton, Warburton, Wesburn, Woori Yallock, Yarra Junction

Getting to the trailhead in Warburton.

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 .

Get there with Google Maps

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Warburton or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - 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.

Explore safe

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.

Packing checklists

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.

Let someone know

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

Reviews

Warburton Township Loop Walk (5km)

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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.

Hike at a Glance