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National park · Belgrave, Victoria
Dandenong Ranges National Park
Giant eucalyptus and fern forests in the mountains east of Melbourne, with the 1000 Steps stairway, walking tracks and the lyrebird.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Dandenong Ranges National Park
Dandenong Ranges National Park protects the forests of the mountains east of Melbourne, less than an hour from the city centre. The forest is made up of very tall eucalypts, such as the mountain ash—one of the world’s tallest trees—and wet valleys full of tree ferns.
The best-known trail is the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk, which includes the 1000 Steps, at Upper Ferntree Gully. It’s about 3 km return, with a steep climb on stone and timber steps through the forest. Signs along the way commemorate the Australian soldiers who fought on the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea during World War II.
The lyrebird lives in Sherbrooke forest; it is famous for mimicking the songs of other birds and even machine noises. There are easier tracks, like the Ramblers Track, and picnic areas scattered through the park.
Mountain villages such as Sassafras and Olinda sit among the park areas, with gardens and tearooms.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
2 to 4 hours.
Best time
Early morning on weekdays, when the 1000 Steps are quieter and the lyrebirds more active. The park closes on days of catastrophic fire risk.
How to get there
By train to Upper Ferntree Gully station and about a 1 km walk to the start of the 1000 Steps; by car via Burwood Highway.
Tip
The 1000 Steps are steep: bring water and sturdy footwear. Parking fills up on weekends; the train is a good alternative.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Dandenong Ranges National Park
What are the 1000 Steps like?
It’s a trail of about 3 km return, with a steep climb on steps through the forest. It requires a reasonable level of fitness.
Can you reach the 1000 Steps by train?
Yes. From Upper Ferntree Gully station on the Belgrave line it’s about a 1 km walk to the trailhead.
What is the lyrebird?
It is a bird of the forests of south‑east Australia, famous for mimicking the songs of other birds and a variety of sounds. It lives in the forests of the Dandenong Ranges.