Healesville is a small town located in the Yarra Valley region of Victoria, Australia. It is a popular destination for visitors who come to experience the stunning scenery, indulge in the local food and wine, and explore the great outdoors. One of the most popular outdoor activities in the region is hiking, and Healesville is surrounded by some of the best hiking trails in Victoria. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best hikes near Healesville and provide information on how to get to them.
Mt. St. Leonard
Mt. St. Leonard is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the region, and for good reason. The trail to the summit is challenging, but the views from the top are breathtaking. On a clear day, hikers can see all the way to Melbourne. The trail is 11.6 km long and takes approximately 4-5 hours to complete. The trailhead is located in the Toolangi State Forest, which is about a 20-minute drive from Healesville. To get to the trailhead, head north on the Maroondah Highway and turn left onto Myers Creek Road. Follow the signs to the Mt. St. Leonard car park.
Maroondah Dam
The Maroondah Dam is a popular spot for picnics and leisurely walks, but it also has some great hiking trails. The Maroondah Reservoir Park has a number of trails, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. The best hike in the park is the Maroondah Dam Walk, which is 7 km long and takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete. The trail takes hikers around the dam and through the surrounding forest, offering beautiful views of the water and the surrounding hills. To get to the Maroondah Dam, head east on the Maroondah Highway and turn left onto Healesville-Kinglake Road. Follow the signs to the Maroondah Dam car park.
Cathedral Range State Park
The Cathedral Range State Park is located about 45 minutes from Healesville and is home to some of the most challenging hikes in the region. The range is made up of a series of jagged peaks and rocky outcrops, and the trails require a good level of fitness and experience. The Razorback Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the park, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail is 12 km long and takes approximately 5-6 hours to complete. To get to the Cathedral Range State Park, head north on the Maroondah Highway and turn right onto the Taggerty-Thornton Road. Follow the signs to the Cathedral Range State Park car park.
Yarra Ranges National Park
The Yarra Ranges National Park is located about 20 minutes from Healesville and is home to some of the most diverse hiking trails in the region. The park covers an area of over 76,000 hectares and includes a range of different landscapes, including rainforest, eucalyptus forest, and alpine meadows. The park has a number of different trails to choose from, ranging from easy to difficult. The best hike in the park is the Mt. Donna Buang Summit Walk, which is 5 km long and takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete. The trail takes hikers to the summit of Mt. Donna Buang, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. To get to the Yarra Ranges National Park, head east on the Maroondah Highway and turn left onto Don Road. Follow the signs to the park entrance.
Before going on any hike you should make sure you have the correct equipment, have adequate clothing, food and water and let people know where you are going. Always make sure you check the weather and do not attempt to hike in conditions you are unsure of; Eg at night, or if you cannot see the trail.