Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

Rainforests, rocky outcrops and mountain views

Just an hour’s drive east of Melbourne is the lush rainforest paradise of the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.

The perfect region for an easy nature escape, you'll find breathtaking scenery at every turn and an array of iconic wineries, restaurants and retreats to relax at after your outdoor adventure.

Explore forest treks, see ancient trees and waterfalls and ride some of Victoria's most thrilling mountain bike trails. Bushwalk through dense forest and ferny gullies and camp alongside flowing rivers and mossy creeks. Hike up a mountain to capture views as far as the You Yangs and Port Phillip Bay.

Visit this region for countless nature experiences in our state forests, Dandenong Ranges National Park, Yarra Ranges National Park and Kinglake National Park.

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For forest info on the go, download the More to Explore app and get easy access to maps and guides on what to see and do for more than 600 forest attractions.

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Popular activities in Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

The Kalatha Giant Tree
Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

Kalatha Giant Tree Walk

This short family-friendly walk takes in the magnificent Kalatha Giant Tree, thought to be over 350 years old.

Walking
Two people stand on a viewing platform and look at a cascading waterfall
Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

Steavenson Falls Walk

Soak in the tall trees and ferns along the path as you journey to one of Victoria's highest waterfalls.

Walking
The giant Ada Tree
Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

Ada Tree

Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges – One of Victoria's largest trees and more than 300 years old, enjoy a scenic walk and picnic at this popular attraction.

Walking Picnicking
Vast views from a rocky outcrop over forested hills below
Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

Seven Acre Rock

Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges – Enjoy a short walk to a rocky outcrop with views of Bunyip State Park, and finish with a scenic lunch at the picnic area.

Walking Picnicking
Ferns and streams along the Wirrawilla Walk
Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

Wirrawilla Rainforest Walk

Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges – A great day out for kids, this easy boardwalk circuit winds through cool and colourful rainforest.

Walking
A stone viewing platform leads to a small waterfall surrounded by ferns
Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

La La Falls

Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges – Near the town of Warburton, this walk is a gentle climb through a picturesque forest to a small, scenic waterfall.

Walking
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