By Derek Schlennstedt
With well over 200 kilometres of walking trails in the Dandenongs, who needs to go further afield for a great day out?
No matter what level of walk visitors are seeking – a short, brisk, or challenging one – there are plenty of incredible options in the Yarra Ranges.
Surrounded by native bushlands and forests, it’s simply a must for any local or visitor to venture outdoors and discover a favourite trail.
Whether it’s the challenge of scaling the 1000 Steps, or wandering throughout Birdsland Reserve, there is inspiration aplenty.
1. Birdsland Reserve
A great little option for those seeking some time away from the ’rat race’. Birdsland is a 75ha bushland reserve which opened to the public in 1984.
The area comprises many walking, riding and mountain biking trails, including the Dargon Trail which connects trail-users to Lysterfield Lake Park.
More than 130 different native birds have been identified in the reserve, including the wedge-tailed eagle and powerful owl.
2. 1000 Steps
This hugely popular exercise option gives participants a little taste of the exhaustion endured by Australian soldiers who followed the Kokoda Trail, in Papua New Guinea, in World War II.
Through the many tree ferns and manna gum, walkers work their way through some incredible scenery to the top of the hill.
The steps themselves are steep and are not recommended for those with medical conditions.
For those who can, make sure to observe the plaques that honour those who fought and died during the Kokoda campaign.
3. Grants Picnic Ground
While Grants Picnic Ground at Sherbrooke is mostly known for its cafe and bird-feeding area, there are many fantastic trails that surround.
Starting from the picnic grounds, the trails enable you to take in some incredible scenery and spot some equally amazing plants and animals. Among the options include: Margaret Lester Forest Walk (300m); Hard Gully Nature Walk (700m); and Eastern Sherbrooke Forest Walk (7.1km).
