Dights Falls Loop Trail
4.2 km
Dights Falls Loop Trail is a spectacular walk shaped by history and characterized by its unique geological features. Starting on the north side of Kanes Bridge, you’ll notice the sports oval which was once the site of the Yarra Bend Lunatic Asylum. The exotic fig, elm, and cypress trees stand as reminders of the Asylum’s past. At the junction of the Yarra River and Merri Creek, the river narrows between an 800,000-year-old volcanic lava flow and a Silurian period sedimentary spur. This area was once a gathering place of the indigenous Wurnundjeri people. As you cross the bridge, discover Dights Falls, an artificial dam built on a natural rock bar back in the 1840s.
Albert Park Lake
5km
Albert Park is a mecca for activity. Located only three kilometers from the city center, Albert Park offers sporting facilities, a gymnasium, an aquatic center, and a golf course, and the lake can be used for rowing and water activities. Albert Park also hosts the Australian Grand Prix in March and is popular with families, dog owners, and joggers. The palm-tree lined walk around the park is just under five kilometers and offers dazzling views of Melbourne’s skyline. Albert Park is also home to 117 native and exotic plant species, as well as birds and native mammals.
Foreshore Trail
11km
This three-hour beachfront trek takes you from Sandridge Beach all the way to Elwood and offers stunning views of Hobsons Bay. A popular starting point is Sandridge Beach. Stroll down to Princes Pier, past Station and Lagoon Pier to the South Melbourne Lifesaving Club. Take in the iconic sights as you pass the Esplanade Hotel, St Kilda Sea Baths, Luna Park, and the St Kilda Marina. Thriving with cafés and restaurants, Acland Street is great spot to have a snack and rest your feet before continuing on the last leg of the journey.
The Tan
3.8km
No list of Melbourne’s most scenic walking trails would be complete without the Tan. Circling Kings Domain and the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Tan was originally a tanbark horse-riding trail before pedestrians took over. A favourite of AFL footballers and sporting heroes such as Cathy Freeman, the path is lighted from 5:30am until midnight, offering early morning and night time runners a safe place to jog and with so much surrounding plant life, you’ll find that much of the path is shaded, making it ideal in summer. Start at Birdwood Avenue and following the perimeter of the enclosed botanical oasis
Capital City Trail
29km
Used by both cyclists and pedestrians, the Capital City Trail is the perfect sightseeing route, as it features attractions including Alexandra Gardens, the MCG, Melbourne Zoo, and Docklands, just to name a few. Begin your journey on the south side of Yarra River at the trail near Princes Bridge. Follow the river to Yarra Bend Park and see Dights Falls before continuing down the Merri Creek Trail to Royal Park by which time you’ll be on the Moonee Ponds Creek Trail, which you can follow all the way to the scenic Docklands and back to Southbank. The 29km Capital City Trail is a culmination of various Melbourne walk,s allowing you to take in everything the city has to offer.
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