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!
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 in the area
Bushwalking, four-wheel driving, horse riding, kayaking, rock climbing and mountain biking are just some of the many activities you can experience in Victoria's parks.
If you want to try something new or meet some like-minded people on your next visit to a park, contact a licensed tour operator.
Parks Victoria licenses tour operators who are experts in these activities and more. They will help you get the most out of your visit.
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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Yarra River
Main Yarra Trail Closure - Burnley Harbour
The Main Yarra Trail will be closed at Burnley Harbour, between Mary Street and Barkly Avenue, due to sediment removal works under the trail. The trail will be closed on weekdays from 7 August 2020 between 7.30 am and 5.30 pm. See attached information sheet for a recommended alternative route. This is the final closure relating to the sediment removal works. The works along the trail are expected to be completed by the end of August.Attachments: Closure Main Yarra Trail Burnley Harbour_Alternative Routes (218KB)
Lower Yarra River maintenance dredging works
Dredging works are being undertaken on the Yarra River, with the Victorian Rowing Association Landing the first section of the Yarra River to have these works completed after which sediment will be removed from underneath the floating sections of the Main Yarra Trail. Dredging works along the river are expected to go on until the end of August. For further information, contact Parks Victoria on 13 1963 or visit the Parks Victoria website. -
Notices Affecting Multiple Parks
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.
How we keep it special
