From tall forests closer to Melbourne to alpine towns further north, these state forest spots are all reachable by train and bus and work well for day trips or longer stays.
Marysville and surrounds
Marysville is easy to reach by public transport, with the journey from Flinders Street Station taking under 2.5 hours. Catch a train to Ringwood Station, then bus route 684 through to the town.
Marysville is a nature lover's paradise, surrounded by forests and alpine landscapes. It is a good base for exploring nearby state forest walks and lookouts, including the Beauty Spot Nature Trail, Tree Fern Gully and Steavenson Falls.
The area suits slow exploring, short walks and cooler temperatures, particularly as Autumn sets in.
Bright, Myrtleford and the Alpine forests
For a longer public transport trip, Bright is well worth the journey.
Travel from Southern Cross Station to Wangaratta by V/Line, then connect to a bus through to Bright. The total trip takes just over 4 hours.
On your way to Bright, consider a pit stop in Myrtleford (bus stops at the post office), and enjoy the 3.7 km return Reform Hill Lookout Loop for great views of the Ovens Valley, Mount Buffalo and the Victorian Alps.
Bright township is a good place to spend time before heading into the surrounding forests. Set among mountain ranges on the Country of multiple Traditional Owners, including the Taungurung people, the area offers plenty of walking tracks and forest sites to explore.
Popular walks include Valley View Walk, Huggins Lookout Walk, Bakers Gully Reservoir loops and Apex Lookout Walk.
Noojee
Noojee offers a quieter forest escape focused on short walks and local history, taking about 3 hours from Melbourne’s CBD by public transport.
The journey involves a train to Warragul, followed by a bus connection through to Noojee. It’s important to plan ahead, as the bus service between Warragul and Noojee runs only on weekdays and with limited services.
Once in town, options include exploring the Noojee Heritage Centre, walking along the Rail Trail to the iconic Noojee Trestle Bridge, or wandering sections of the old timber tramway at the Ralph Cornwall Walk.
Picnic spots are available at the Noojee Trestle Bridge or the Noojee Depot Picnic Area, with lunch options available at the local café, toolshed or the iconic pub.
Before you head off
While these sites are accessible by public transport, it is worth checking timetables and connections and planning what you will carry.
Bring water, food and suitable footwear and be prepared for limited phone coverage in forest areas.
With free public transport available until the end of April, it is a good opportunity to explore Victoria’s state forests without relying on a car.
To plan your trip, use Transport Victoria’s journey planner.
Page last updated: 21/04/26