Explore stunning hiking trails of Yarra Ranges National Park

Yarra Ranges National Park: Mountains, Forests and Waterfalls near Melbourne

Steeped in Aboriginal cultural heritage, Yarra Ranges National Park offers a scenic escape just outside Melbourne. This national park boasts dramatic mountain ranges, towering forests, cascading waterfalls and diverse plant and animal life.

Explore panoramic views from Mount Donna Buang, the park’s highest peak. Alternatively, take a scenic drive along the Black Spur, winding through majestic Mountain Ash forests – the world’s tallest flowering tree. This route leads to Lake Mountain, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.

The park encompasses a vast area around Marysville, Healesville and Warburton. Lush rainforests harbour a variety of ferns and Myrtle Beech, while clear streams feed the Yarra River and Melbourne’s reservoirs.

Scenic lookouts abound in Yarra Ranges National Park. Take in breathtaking views from Mount Donna Buang, or explore the Rainforest Gallery for a unique perspective of the towering Mountain Ash trees. In winter, this peak transforms into Melbourne’s closest ski resort.

Beginning in Healesville, the Black Spur Drive winds through towering Mountain Ash forests to Narbethong. Along this scenic route, discover walking tracks and picnic areas like Donnelly’s Weir, Dom Dom Saddle and Maroondah Reservoir Park.

The drive continues to Marysville, a town surrounded by walking trails. Explore the Tree Fern Gully trail or marvel at Steavenson Falls, one of Victoria’s highest waterfalls with a cascading drop of 82 metres.

Near Marysville and Warburton, find Victoria’s biggest Mountain Ash – a towering 400-year-old giant exceeding 85 metres in height. This natural wonder can be found near Cambarville Picnic Area on the Cumberland walking track.

Explore the majestic Mountain Ash forests and the upper Yarra River around Warburton. Visit the Californian Redwood Forest, a unique arboretum with a picturesque linear planting.

For panoramic views, drive to the summit of Mount Donna Buang and walk along the skywalk at the Rainforest Gallery, offering a perspective from above the canopy of giant eucalyptus trees.

Hike to scenic lookouts at Lake Mountain and marvel at the breathtaking views of the Victorian Alps, Melbourne’s cityscape and the foothills of the Great Dividing Range.

Whether you seek panoramic vistas, cascading waterfalls, historical sites or diverse plant and animal life, Yarra Ranges National Park offers a range of experiences for visitors of all interests.

Want to find the best trails in Yarra Ranges National Park for an adventurous hike or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the top trails for walking, hiking, running and more.