Explore
Yarra River
The Yarra River is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape that includes traditional Country of the Wurundjeri People. Parks Victoria respects the deep and continuing connection that Traditional Owners have to these lands and waters, and we recognise their ongoing role in caring for Country.
The Yarra River’s journey begins on the southern slopes of the Great Dividing Range and twists through the forested valleys of the Yarra Ranges and its quaint regional towns before concluding its journey on the muddy flats of Port Phillip Bay.
Elemental to Melbourne’s identity, the Yarra River is one of Victoria’s iconic waterways. It has spiritual and cultural significance for Aboriginal communities. To the Wurundjeri people the river, known as Birrarung, was the life source and an important meeting place. And, to many locals, where happy memories of personal pilgrimages, peaceful summer evenings, and days exploring were made.
Board one of the river cruises from Southbank to explore the lower reaches of the Yarra, follow the Capital City Trail on foot or bike, canoe or kayak all or part of its 240-kilometre expanse, or set up for a scenic sunset barbecue or picnic on the banks of the river.
Join in on the rich events calendar – from the famous Moomba Festival to regattas and rowing races, the Dragon Boat Festival and an endless array of community events. The Yarra has something for everyone!
As rivers, lakes and reservoirs are natural environments, you may encounter hazards. Follow our water safety advice to make sure your day out at Yarra River is a safe and enjoyable one.
Things to do in the area
Canoeists and kayakers can enjoy under-the-radar spots along short river trips such as Jumping Creek to Warrandyte and Sweeneys lane to Westerfolds.
Herring Island
Pound Bend
Yarra Bend Park
Bird watching
Canoeing and Kayaking
Day trips
Family activities
Tours and adventure experiences in parks
One of the best ways you can get into nature is with a Licensed Tour Operator.
There are more than 400 Licensed Tour Operators across Victoria who are ready and waiting to help you experience and connect with Victoria’s spectacular parks and waterways.
Discover more than 60 different types of nature-based experiences including hiking, mountain biking, boating, four-wheel driving, indigenous culture tours, birdwatching, surfing, diving and so much more.
Licensed Tour Operators know the all best places to go and will plan and prepare your visit to ensure you are safe and can enjoy your nature-based adventure to the fullest.
How to get there
Yarra River
Before you go
Need to know
Yarra River
Accessibility
Change of Conditions
Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.
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Notices Affecting Multiple Sites
Shallow waters - Herring Island Environmental Sculpture Park
The Herring Island meander on the Yarra River has reduced water depth as a result of built up sediments. Please ensure that you navigate this area with caution as certain sections have encroached into the main section of the river (near Como and Wesley Rowing landing).Further updates and changes to conditions will be provided as needed.Notice to river users - river closures, works, and events
As Waterway Manager under the Marine Safety Act 2010 Parks Victoria wishes to advise these waterway closures and activities (PDF) on the Yarra River, Maribyrnong River and Victoria Harbour.Attachments: NTRU October 20 (337KB)
Notice to river users - river closures, works, and events
As Waterway Manager under the Marine Safety Act 2010 Parks Victoria wishes to advise these waterway closures and activities (PDF) on the Yarra River, Maribyrnong River and Victoria Harbour.Attachments: NTRU October 20 (337KB)
Notice to river users - river closures, works, and events
As Waterway Manager under the Marine Safety Act 2010 Parks Victoria wishes to advise these waterway closures and activities (PDF) on the Yarra River, Maribyrnong River and Victoria Harbour.Attachments: NTRU October 20 (337KB)
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Yarra River
Lower Yarra River Maintenance Dredging Program- Dredging Campaign 2021/22
The second year of dredging under the current four-year Maintenance Dredging Program will commence on 15 October and be completed 31 March. Dredging will occur at four sites between Botanic Gardens Landing and Burnley Harbour. See attached River User Update for more information and the current Notice to River Users for detailed information on safe navigation and exclusion zones related to the works.Attachments: Edition 2 - River User Update Yarra Maintenance Dredging Program Sep 2021 (1,069KB)
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