Rainforest Gallery (Donna Buang) (Yarra Ranges National Park)

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Rainforest Gallery (Donna Buang) (Yarra Ranges National Park)

Located within the Yarra Ranges National Park, Rainforest Gallery can be accessed via Donna Buang Road and is only a 10-minute drive from Warburton on the way to Mt Donna Buang summit.

Set in a cool temperate rain forest this elevated platform is perched 15 metres above the forest floor and allows visitors to take in the beauty of the towering Mountain Ash and ancient Myrtle Beech trees, some which are estimated to be over 400 years old.

The 40-metre-long platform is fully accessible from the carpark. There is also a set of approximately 100 stairs that will lead you along a 20 min walk on an elevated walkway. This walk offers multiple viewing areas amongst the forest, where you can pause and enjoy the sounds of Cement Creek flowing past on its journey to the Yarra River.

How to get there

Rainforest Gallery (Donna Buang) (Yarra Ranges National Park)

Rainforest Gallery (Donna Buang) (Yarra Ranges National Park)

Need to know

Rainforest Gallery (Donna Buang) (Yarra Ranges National Park)

Safety in nature

You can benefit both mind and body when you get outdoors to explore and experience Victoria's natural places. Before you go, take a look at our safety tips and check our changed conditions and closures information for a great visit.

Accessibility

Visiting a park can be more of a challenge for people with disabilities, however, in Victoria there are a wide range of facilities to help people of all abilities enjoy our wonderful parks around the state. Parks Victoria provides a range of a equipment, including all-terrain and beach wheelchairs, facilities, accommodation and accessibility information and programs to help you plan and enjoy your visit to Victoria's parks.

Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.

Warnings & Restrictions

Dogs

Dogs are not allowed

Restrictions

  • No firearms allowed
  • No dogs allowed

Warnings

  • Other warnings
    • Limbs may fall take care
    • None applicable

Be Prepared

Stay safe and get the most out of your park visit by preparing for natural hazards and other outdoor risks in Victoria’s parks. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care. Find out more.

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.

Rainforest Gallery Closed for Repairs

The Rainforest Gallery boardwalk is closed until further notice.  Urgent repairs are required for visitor safety.  

Dom Dom Saddle Picnic Area - Toilet Closure

Dom Dom Saddle Picnic Area toilets are permanently closed and will be removed in their entirety at a later date.
The nearest toilets are at Fernshaw Picnic ground.

Partial walking track closure on Cumberland Circuit walk (South of Woods Point Road)

There is a partial closure in place on the Cumberland Circuit walk due to hazardous tree fall risk south of Woods Point Rd (see map attached) 

Attachments: Cambarville_A4_0412 (1,190KB)

Cambarville toilet block closed until further notice

Cambarville toilet block is closed until further notice due to water supply issues and structural problems 

Summit Loop Trail - Partial Closure - Lake Mountain Summit

The Summit Loop walking trail is partially closed at Lake Mountain until further notice.  

Attachments: Lake Mountain Summit Loop Partial Track Closure (562KB)

Big Peninsula access to tunnel entry viewing platform and Goldfields walk via Peninsula Rd temporarily closed during road works

Melbourne Water are repairing the crossing on Peninsula Rd. During this time, the walking track beyond the Big Peninsula maintenance vehicle gate will be inaccessible. Works are scheduled to start in early June 2026 and finish in late June or early July 2026.

Attachments: Big Pen culvert works (238KB)

Big Peninsula Stepping Stones permanently closed due to erosion

Due to instability caused by erosion, the Big Peninsula Stepping Stones are permanently closed for visitor safety. 

❄ Mt Donna Buang Snow Play: What to Know Before You Go ❄

❄ Mount Donna Buang Snow Play: What to Know Before You Go ❄

Looking for snow near Melbourne this winter? Located just two hours away in Yarra Ranges National Park (Wurundjeri Country), the 1,245-metre summit of Mount Donna Buang typically sees snow from June to August.

Access is completely free. When there is enough snow, you can enjoy three dedicated toboggan runs, build snowmen, and enjoy family snow fights. Because of its proximity to Melbourne, the mountain gets extremely busy on weekends and right after fresh snowfall.

Here is how to plan a safe, enjoyable winter trip.

1. Check Weather & Road Conditions
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for cold, wet, and windy conditions regardless of the morning forecast.
  • Pack Essentials: Bring extra warm layers, spare dry clothes, food, and water.
  • Emergency Kit: Travel with a full tank of fuel, blankets, and a torch in case of traffic delays.
  • Connectivity: Mobile coverage is patchy. Download maps/guides before leaving and let someone know your plans.
  • Live Updates: Check the Parks Victoria website for road closures and conditions changes before departing. The Waterwheel Visitor Information Centre in Warburton also provides real-time local updates.

2. Time Your Departure & Driving
If heading up after a fresh snowfall, always check the road conditions before setting out. Don't leave too early—give Dept. of Transport road crews time to grit and clear the ice.
  • Snow Chains: While not mandatory, carrying chains is highly recommended. Hire them in the valley before reaching Warburton. Watch Parks Victoria’s two-minute online video: ‘how to fit snow chains’.
  • Drive Time: From Warburton, the 17km drive up Mount Donna Buang Road takes 20–25 minutes in good weather. Drive slowly and carefully.
  • Have a Plan B: If the access road is temporarily closed due to overcrowding or weather, head to Warburton to enjoy local cafes or the Riverside Walk while you wait.

3. Consider Carpooling & Mid-Week Visits
As Melbourne’s closest free snow destination, the summit experiences extreme traffic congestion on weekends. To beat the crowds and reduce delays, carpool with friends or plan a mid-week trip.

4. Enjoy Fun, Safe Tobogganing
  • Equipment: Use plastic moulded toboggans only. Skis and snowboards are not permitted.
  • Location: Only toboggan in designated areas to protect the environment.
  • Hire: Toboggans can be hired in surrounding towns or at the summit on select snow days.
Note on Variable Snow: Mount Donna Buang is lower than major alpine resorts. Snow melts quickly and tobogganing isn't always possible. Always check the daily snow report before packing the car.

5. Leave Your Dogs at Home
Because Mount Donna Buang is in a national park, dogs and pets are strictly prohibited to protect native wildlife.

Other Places to See Snow in Victoria
If Mount Donna Buang is crowded or lacking snow, consider these alternative winter destinations:
Destination
Best For
Drive from Melbourne
Lake Mountain Alpine Resort
(Taungurung Country)
 
 
Fully managed snow play, tobogganing, cross-country skiing, and nearby rainforest walks.
2–3 hours
Mount St Gwinear
(Gunaikurnai & Wurundjeri Country)
 
Free park entry, family-friendly snow play, snowshoeing, and tobogganing.
3 hours
Mount Buffalo National Park
(Taungurung Country)
 
 
Reliable snow, tobogganing, and cross-country skiing at Cresta Valley and Dingo Dell.
4–5 hours
Dinner Plain, Alpine National Park
(Taungurung and Gunaikurnai Country)
Near Mount Hotham Resort, quaint alpine village atmosphere, snow play and cross-country skiing.
 
5–6 hours
 
 

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