Must-See Trails for Dog Owners in Victoria

Explore more, together - alpine climbs to coastal wanders

Victoria’s landscapes offer endless variety for you and your dog to explore. Whether you're chasing cool forest air or wind-swept coastal paths, this list includes eight rewarding tracks suited to different adventure levels and terrains.

1. The Tan Track, Melbourne

• Difficulty: Easy

• Terrain: Flat, gravel loop

• Highlights: Scenic loop around the Royal Botanic Gardens; great for urban adventurers and social pups.

2. Alfred Nicholas Gardens Track, Sherbrooke

• Difficulty: Easy

• Terrain: Garden paths, gentle inclines

• Highlights: Beautiful ornamental lake, bridges and ferny gullies. Quiet and picturesque.

3. Lake Daylesford Loop Walk

• Difficulty: Easy

• Terrain: Flat path, lakeside gravel

• Highlights: Popular for gentle strolls, cafés nearby, ideal for small or senior dogs.

4. Merri Creek Trail, Melbourne (Inner North)

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

• Terrain: Concrete and gravel shared path

• Highlights: A long meandering urban escape with plenty of green stops and access points.

5. Mount Macedon Walking Trails

• Difficulty: Moderate to Hard

• Terrain: Bush trails, rocky inclines

• Highlights: Panoramic views from the summit, cooler temps in summer, rugged terrain for experienced pups.

6. Bright to Wandiligong Walk, High Country

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Terrain: Crushed gravel, some bridges

• Highlights: Heritage town vibes, rural scenery, and a relatively quiet path along Morses Creek.

7. Surf Coast Walk (Torquay to Anglesea section)

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Terrain: Coastal cliffs, sandy and gravel paths

• Highlights: Ocean views, breezy trails, some off-leash sections depending on the time of year.

8. Albert Park Lake, Melbourne

• Difficulty: Easy

• Terrain: Flat paved path

• Highlights: Dog-friendly all around the lake, plus cafés and wide open space nearby for a cool-down.

Tips for Victorian Walks:

• Always check local council rules for off-leash areas and seasonal restrictions.

• Avoid national parks unless clearly signed as dog-friendly (many restrict access).

• Pack water, especially for walks in regional Victoria where facilities are limited.

For trail-tested carriers, harnesses, cooling and safety gear, explore our Explore and Travel Collections - designed for active dogs and the humans who love them.

Image Credits: Tourism Australia, Visit Victoria & Josie Withers