Who are we?
We are a family of four living near Olinda on five beautiful acres with a little patch of rainforest in our garden.
Living in the Dandenong Ranges is incredible. The sound of the birds, particularly the amazing Lyrebird, the smell of the forest and the many walking tracks make this one of the best places to live near Melbourne.
I am Jane, the author of Explore The Dandenongs. I’m passionate about sharing local knowledge with others, the best walks and how to get around the Dandenongs.
I hope you enjoy the experience and have many happy hikes!
Dandenong Ranges National Park
The Dandenong Ranges National Park is a welcome escape from Melbourne city life for many and a major tourist destination for local and international visitors. At 633 meters in height, Mt Dandenong can be seen from the Melbourne city centre, just under 50 km away.
The cool-temperate rainforest of the Dandenong Ranges National Park is home to numerous native animals, including the lyrebird, wombats, echidnas, possums, and colourful parrots. With miles of walking tracks to explore and a varied assortment of craft shops, cafes, restaurants, and tourist attractions, staying for a night or two at one of the exquisite accommodation options available in the Dandenongs would be a great idea.
Dandenong Ranges Walks
Walking trails in the Dandenongs range from very short strolls to quite strenuous hikes. A number of the tracks are open to mountain bikers, horse riders and dog walkers.
Walk quietly; local wildlife can often be seen. Early morning in the forest is perhaps the ideal time to spot the lyrebird and other elusive native animals.
Each post provides details on walk distance, the general level of fitness required, available parking, whether it is dog-friendly, and whether it is suitable for wheelchairs or baby prams.
Before starting, it is recommended that a map app of walking trails in the Dandenongs be downloaded.
Bushwalking Safety
The usual precautions need to be taken when hiking, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, carry adequate water and snacks. Weather can change quickly, so make sure to check the forecast prior to heading off.
Do not walk during high winds as limbs/trees are more likely to fall. High fire danger days are not ideal for walking either.
What is the weather like in the Dandenong Ranges?
The Dandenongs were a favourite summer-time destination for Melbournians in days gone by, flocking to the hills to retreat from the heat of Melbourne and enjoying the cool of the rainforest.
Summer temperatures are generally about 5 degrees cooler than those in Melbourne, and winter temperatures are often a bit cooler than the city – all the better to stay in the Dandenongs and snuggle up by a fire, take a brisk walk, or relax in a local eatery. Occasionally, we get some snow, not often enough, though!
Quite often, it might be foggy down in the ‘lowlands’ but sunny up on the mountain; never assume the weather is the same in both areas.
Accommodation in the Dandenong Ranges
The hills are bursting with fabulous B&Bs, from fairly basic rooms to luxurious suites and entire cottages. Find accommodation options in our accommodation category.
Sadly, we do not have any campsites in the Dandenongs or any caravan parks.
Tours & Transport to the Dandenong Ranges
Several tour operators offer day trips to the Dandenongs departing either from Melbourne or from within the Dandenongs, picking up passengers from local B&Bs. Some will be listed on this site under the Tours category.
Self-driving to the Dandenongs will take just under an hour from Melbourne.
Parking in the Dandenong Ranges
Most of the villages in the Dandenongs have limited parking. If you are planning a long walk in the hills, please consider parking away from village centres or using public transport.
How to use Public Transport to the Dandenongs
The most direct access to the Dandenong Ranges on public transport is to take the train to Upper Ferntree Gully station and catch a connecting bus into the hills, or go a little further on the train to Belgrave, where buses connect. It is possible to walk directly into the forest from Belgrave or Upper Ferntree Gully, or take the local bus up.
There is a train service to Croydon and a connecting bus coming up from the other side of the mountain through Montrose. A bus service also runs from Lilydale train station through Monbulk to Belgrave.
Please check bus timetables either online via the links below or at a local station.
Route 688 – Croydon – Upper Ferntree Gully via Olinda and Tremont
Route 694 – Olinda – Belgrave via Sherbrooke Road
Bikes can sometimes be transported on trains. Please check at a local train station if planning to cycle in the Dandenongs.
Dogs are allowed on trains, provided they are muzzled; please check the current regulations with PTV. Dogs are allowed on buses in an approved pet carrier, except for guide dogs or service animals that are required to accompany their owners. Many areas in the Dandenong Ranges National Park are dog-free zones. Please see our Dog-friendly walks page.