Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails Around Melbourne

There's nothing quite like watching your dog's face light up when they realise they're heading somewhere new. Melbourne and its surrounds offer some cracking dog-friendly hiking trails where both you and your four-legged mate can stretch your legs and breathe in some proper fresh air. Whether you're after a quick weekend escape or a proper day out in nature, we've rounded up the best spots to get your pup's tail wagging.

Why Take Your Dog Hiking?

Let's be honest – our dogs give us so much. They deserve more than the same old walk around the block. Hiking together strengthens your bond, keeps them mentally stimulated, and burns off that endless energy (you know the one). Plus, there's something pretty special about sharing an adventure with your best mate, even if they do have four legs and occasionally eat questionable things off the ground.

Our Top Dog-Friendly Trails Near Melbourne

Yarra Bend Park, Fairfield

Distance: Various trails, 3-7km
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Right in Melbourne's backyard, Yarra Bend is the largest natural bushland park in the city – and it welcomes dogs with open arms. The trails wind along the Yarra River, offering city views mixed with proper bushland vibes. There's plenty of space for dogs to explore on-leash, and the well-maintained paths make it perfect for pups of all sizes.

Top tip: Go early on weekends to snag a good parking spot and enjoy the peaceful morning atmosphere before the crowds arrive.

Mathias Track, Olinda

Distance: 3.5km one way
Difficulty: Easy

Nestled in the Dandenongs, about 50km northeast of the CBD, the Mathias Track is one of Melbourne's most picturesque dog walking trails. This wide, well-graded trail is suitable for all dog breeds, though it can get slippery after rain. The best bit? There's an off-leash dog park at the old Olinda Golf Course nearby where your pup can burn off any remaining energy.

Gear up: The Dandenongs can get properly muddy, especially after rain. This is where a waterproof lead makes all the difference – our recycled plastic bottle leads at Wet Dog and Co are designed for exactly these conditions. They'll handle the mud, the wet, and whatever else the trail throws at you, then clean up easily when you're done. No soggy, smelly leads in the car on the way home.

Trentham Falls Track

Distance: 1.5km return
Difficulty: Easy (with some stairs)

It's not often you get to walk your dog to a waterfall in Australia, but Trentham Falls – about 90km northwest of Melbourne near Daylesford – makes it possible. Apart from a steep section of stairs near the waterfall lookout, the bush walk is fairly even and easy. Your dog can even have a drink from the running stream at the picnic area at the end.

Pack smart: Bring plenty of water for both of you, and definitely a towel. With waterfalls and streams, there's a 100% chance your pup will get wet. A waterproof lead means you won't be wrestling with a soggy, heavy lead for the walk back – ours are made from recycled plastic bottles, so they're lightweight, waterproof, and actually dry quickly.

Stevenson Falls, Otways

Distance: 1.2km return (short walk) or 2.4km (longer option)
Difficulty: Easy

Located in the Otway Forest Park near Forrest, Stevenson Falls is one of the best dog-friendly waterfalls in the region. The track has recently been upgraded and is now wheelchair accessible, featuring a new boardwalk. This is a really lovely waterfall, definitely one of the best easy and short walks in the Otways – great for many abilities including children, beginners, and older adults.

The walk winds through gorgeous Otways forest with ferns, tall trees, and pools of water surrounded by rocks to hop across. There are spots along the creek where you and your dog can have a paddle (on lead), and you can view the falls from ground height without climbing steps.

Getting there: Turn off at Skenes Creek and head north towards Forrest – it's about a 45-minute drive from Skenes Creek. The access road is 6km of unsealed road, fine for 2WD cars except after heavy rain.

Bonus: There's a small redwood plantation on the other side of the carpark – not native, but still impressive to see. Plus, there's free dog-friendly camping at the nearby Stevenson Falls Campground.

You Yangs Regional Park

Distance: Various trails, 2-6km
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Just a stone's throw from Melbourne's western suburbs and Geelong, the You Yangs permits dogs on the Big Rock loop walk and the Flinders Peak walk. Seven Acre Rock offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and forests, with some steep sections that active dogs will love.

There's a wide variety of walks you can do at the You Yangs, all of them dog-friendly. Popular options include:

• Big Rock Circuit: 800m loop – easy and relatively flat
• Flinders Peak: 3.2km return – probably the most popular walk, ascending the 340m-high peak in the centre of the park
• Branding Yard Trail: 5km loop traversing the eastern part of the park, relatively flat and easy with some descent at the start

Worth noting: These trails can get hot and exposed in summer. Hit the track early and bring extra water.

Point Addis and Bells Beach Loop Trail

Distance: 10.8km loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Near Torquay, Great Ocean Road region

This spectacular coastal loop takes you to Bells Beach, one of the most famous surfing spots in Australia. The trail is dog-friendly and well-maintained, with stunning ocean views throughout. The route includes diverse terrain with beach crossings, clifftop paths, and sections through coastal vegetation.

You'll walk through eucalyptus trees and native coastal plants, with the highlight being when the trail arrives on top of huge sandstone cliffs with views of Point Addis beach and headland. From Point Addis lookout, you can see all the way to Split Point Lighthouse with Lorne in the distance.

Important notes:

• Some beach sections can only be accessed within 2-3 hours either side of low tide, so check tide times before you go
• The route is well-marked and includes interesting information about Indigenous culture along the way
• Bring plenty of water – there's none available on the trail

Gear matters: This coastal walk means salt spray, sand, and potentially wet conditions if you time the tides wrong. Our waterproof leads handle all of it without getting heavy or absorbing water. Perfect for beach-to-cliff adventures where conditions change quickly.

Lake Elizabeth Circuit, Forrest

Distance: 2km return to lake, or 4-5km full circuit
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

This beautiful bushwalk near the town of Forrest in the Otways is one of the most magical dog-friendly hikes in the region. The walk starts in a lush green streamside picnic area before continuing over a little bridge, through eucalyptus forest and into the rainforest. You'll go up and over several rises on the side of the hill before popping out at the lake.

At the lake, there's a little platform where you can sit and enjoy the views. Continue on around to a sandy 'beach' area where your dog can have a paddle, then either turn back or continue all the way around the lake for the longer circuit walk. When the water is still, it's absolutely stunning – though even on windy days, the walk itself through the fern gullies is worth it.

Local tip: Visit at dawn or dusk for the best chance of spotting platypus! There are reportedly nine resident platypuses in the lake, and you might even see glow worms on the path at dusk.

After your walk: Dogs are welcome at the outdoor tables at Forrest Brewery and the General Store – perfect for a post-hike beer and lunch. You can also camp with your dog at the nearby Lake Elizabeth Campground.

Great Otway National Park

Distance: Various trails
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Next time you visit the Great Ocean Road, bring your dog along – you can walk them on St Georges track near Lorne, at Ironbark Gorge, Ocean View, and Surf Coast walking tracks near Torquay, and at Lake Elizabeth walking tracks near Forrest. How good is that? A proper coastal adventure with your best mate.

Essential Tips for Hiking with Your Dog

Before You Go:

• Check the trail allows dogs and note any leash requirements
• Make sure your pup is fit enough for the distance and terrain
• Pack the essentials: water, collapsible bowl, poo bags, first aid kit, and a towel

On the Trail:

• Keep your dog on-leash unless in designated off-leash areas
• Respect other hikers and wildlife – not everyone is as obsessed with dogs as we are
• Pick up after your dog (always, everywhere, no exceptions)
• Watch for signs of tiredness or overheating, especially on hot days

Gear That Actually Works: After enough muddy hikes and creek crossings, you learn what matters: durability and practicality. Our waterproof leads at Wet Dog and Co are made from recycled plastic bottles – which means they're tough enough for rocky trails, won't absorb water when your dog inevitably finds a puddle, and clean up with a quick wipe. No more throwing soggy leads in the wash or dealing with that wet dog lead smell in your car. Plus, they're kinder to the planet, which matters when you're out enjoying the natural spaces we love.

Making the Most of Your Adventure

The best hikes aren't about ticking off the longest trail or reaching the highest peak. They're about those moments when your dog stops to sniff something fascinating, or when you both pause to take in a view. They're about getting muddy, getting tired, and getting back to what really matters – time together in the great outdoors.

So grab your lead, pack some snacks (for both of you), and hit the trail. Melbourne's natural playground is waiting, and your dog's already at the door with their lead in their mouth.

Ready for your next adventure? Check out our range of durable, waterproof, eco-friendly dog gear designed for Australian conditions at Wet Dog and Co. Because every adventure starts with the right gear – and because the trails we love deserve our protection.