Melbourne, the coastal city of Australia, is surrounded by a plethora of hiking trails that cater to every skill level, from beginners to experienced hikers. If you are in Melbourne and looking for a quick weekend escape to nature, here are the five best hiking trips within two hours of Melbourne.
1. The Dandenong Ranges National Park.
Located only an hour east of Melbourne, the Dandenong Ranges National Park offers some of the most stunning hiking trails in Victoria. The park covers an area of over 3,000 hectares and offers a wide range of trails that are perfect for both experienced hikers and beginners. One of the most popular trails in the park is the Kokoda Memorial Walk, which is a 1000-step staircase that takes you through lush forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Wilsons Promontory National Park.
Wilsons Promontory National Park, situated about two hours southeast of Melbourne, is a hiking paradise with an abundance of trails that offer breath-taking scenery, from stunning beaches to rugged mountains. The Prom, as it is affectionately known, is home to one of the most popular hikes in Victoria, the 19km overnight hike to Sealers Cove. This hike takes you through coastal forests, across deserted beaches and to a secluded cove where you can camp for the night.
3. The You Yangs.
Located only 45 minutes west of Melbourne, the You Yangs Regional Park is an ideal destination for a day hike. The park offers a range of trails that cater to all skill levels, from easy walks to more challenging hikes. One of the most popular trails in the park is the Flinders Peak hike, which takes you to the summit of the You Yangs and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
4. Lerderderg State Park.
Lerderderg State Park, situated about an hour northwest of Melbourne, is a hidden gem for hiking enthusiasts. The park is home to some of the most rugged and remote hiking trails in Victoria and offers a truly unique hiking experience. The 16km hike to the O'Briens Crossing is one of the most popular hikes in the park and takes you through stunning gorges, along the Lerderderg River, and through beautiful forests.
5. The Cathedral Ranges.
The Cathedral Ranges, located about two hours northeast of Melbourne, is a hiker's paradise with a range of trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Cathedral Range State Park has a variety of hikes that cater to all skill levels, from the easy short hike to the challenging Cathedral Peak. This hike takes you through steep rock faces and offers breath-taking views of the surrounding landscape.
Melbourne is surrounded by some of the best hiking trails in Victoria that cater to every skill level. Whether you are looking for a quick day hike or an overnight adventure, there is something for everyone within a two-hour drive from Melbourne. So pack your hiking boots, grab your backpack, and head out to explore these stunning natural wonders.