Explore
Walking
Whether you’re after a gentle stroll or something long-distance, walking is one of the most popular activity in Victoria’s national parks, and there are walking trails to suit all levels of fitness and ability.
Enjoy getting into nature all year round with walking tracks along the coastline, the perfect way to breathe in the fresh ocean breeze during warmer months, or rug up and take a short walk through tall forests and fern gullies in the cooler seasons.
If you’re just starting out, Guided Park Walks are free walks facilitated by our volunteers or rangers and the terrain is very flat and easy whilst passing through nature’s tranquil surrounds. Tune in to nature and embark on a walking tour hosted by a local, or if you’re confident, immerse yourself in the great outdoors with an overnight hike.
Walking in nature benefits your physical and mental health and wellbeing, and there is so much on offer in Victoria.
Popular walking parks
Cathedral Range State Park
The Cathedral Range is a spectacular seven km ridge of sharply upturned sedimentary rock.
Grampians National Park
Rising abruptly from the surrounding Western Plains, the Grampians (Gariwerd) is a series of rugged sandstone mountain ranges and forests rich in wildlife. One of Victoria’s most popular holiday destinations, the park is a great venue for camping, climbing, scenic drives, bushwalks and nature study.
Lerderderg State Park
The Lerderderg River has carved a deep and picturesque gorge through this rugged park located within easy reach of Melbourne, Bacchus Marsh and Ballarat. Picnic at Shaws Lake or O'Briens Crossing, follow an old water race and hike part of the Great Dividing Trail, or simply stroll along the river from Mackenzies Flat.
Wilsons Promontory National Park
Welcome to Wilsons Prom, the southernmost tip of mainland Australia. Walk remote coastal bushland trails and swim at pristine beaches dominated by granite tors. Camp in comfort at family-friendly Tidal River or hike to a more secluded campsite
Need to know
Walking
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.
Discover more in nature
Guided park walks
Join us on a free, beginner or intermediate Park Walk led by our trained volunteers.
Mindfulness walks in nature
The health benefits of spending time in nature are now widely accepted. Mindfulness walks take this a step further and help you slow down and focus on the present moment - each step, each breath – feeling calm and relaxed.
Top 10 pram-friendly walks
Getting out into nature with young children is great for everyone’s wellbeing. With the little one strapped into the pram they can learn about nature and discover many of the beautiful places around Melbourne and across Victoria.
Hiking and bushwalking
Witness breathtaking natural scenery at some of Victoria’s most iconic places when you lace up your boots and take to a hiking trail.
Camping
Victoria’s parks have some great places to camp and there is something to suit all tastes. Choose from fully serviced sites with luxury tents to remote locations with nothing but bush.
Day trips
Pack the car and round up your family and friends. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, parks offer a variety of day trips close to Melbourne.
Freshwater swimming
Take a cool, invigorating dip in fresh waterholes, streams and lakes. Be sure to observe safety signs and take caution when swimming in nature.
Long drives
Venture out on a regional road trip with some of Australia's most scenic drives taking you to its most spectacular natural attractions.
