Last updated by PetBubble: 5th December 2025
Trail Details: The Albert Park Lake Loop is one of Melbourneβs most iconic inner-city walking routes. The flat circuit wraps around the lake with sweeping water views, city skyline backdrops, and plenty of space for dogs and humans to enjoy a relaxing stroll.
Highlights: Pet parents can enjoy peaceful lakeside paths, birdlife, rowing crews gliding across the water, and a variety of cafΓ©s nearby. The path is wide, well-maintained, and ideal for walkers, joggers, families, and dogs on-lead. Several off-lead areas sit just outside the loop for pups needing a good run.
Getting there: Accessible via multiple tram routes along St Kilda Road. Parking available along Albert Road, Aughtie Drive, and surrounding streets (paid and free options depending on time and zone).
Walking Map: parks.vic.gov.au PDF
Trail Details: The Capital City Trail is one of Melbourneβs most popular long-distance loops, connecting key landmarks, riverside paths, parklands, and urban areas. It follows sections of Merri Creek, the Yarra River, Royal Park, and Docklands, creating a scenic and diverse experience for pet parents.
Highlights: The route offers leafy creekside stretches, city views, art installations, and plenty of picnic and rest spots. Dogs must remain on-lead, but the gentle terrain makes it ideal for longer, leisurely outings. You can complete the full loop or break it into shorter sections.
Getting there: Multiple access points along the loop including Docklands, Fitzroy North, Southbank, Abbotsford, and Royal Park. Most areas are serviced by trams and nearby street parking.
Walking Map: melbourne.vic.gov.au PDF
Trail Details: Darebin Creek Walk follows the creek from Darebin Parkland through suburban and natural areas, eventually connecting to the Yarra River. The trail offers a peaceful, green corridor ideal for walking, jogging, and enjoying Melbourneβs urban nature.
Highlights: Scenic creek views, native vegetation, birdwatching, and picnic areas along the way. The trail passes several parks, playgrounds, and wetlands, making it an engaging experience for pet parents and families.
Getting there: Access points are available from Darebin Parklands, St Georges Road, and Fairfield. Tram and train options nearby provide convenient public transport access.
Walking Map: dcmc.org.au PDF
Trail Details: The Maribyrnong River Loop is a scenic riverside walk that winds through Aberfeldieβs parks, wetlands, and open green spaces. Perfect for pet parents, this trail provides a mix of paved and gravel paths along calm sections of the river.
Highlights: Enjoy peaceful river views, birdwatching opportunities, and multiple picnic spots. There are several access points to the water and nearby off-leash dog areas, making it a great loop for dogs to stretch their legs.
Getting there: Accessible via Aberfeldie Street and nearby parking at local reserves. Public transport options include tram routes 57 and 59 to nearby stops.
Walking Map: parks.vic.gov.au PDF
Trail Details: Princes Park Loop Walk is a short, accessible loop around Princes Park, perfect for pet parents looking for an easy stroll. The park features open grassed areas, tree-lined paths, and sports ovals.
Highlights: The walk offers a relaxed urban park experience with shaded areas, sports facilities, and plenty of open space for dogs on-lead. Seasonal events and local community activities are also common in the park.
Getting there: Accessible via Royal Parade and surrounding streets. Public transport options include trams 1, 6, and 19 to nearby stops.
Walking Map: outdoorsinc.org.au PDF
Trail Details: Royal Park Self-Guided Loop Walk offers a tranquil urban escape through one of Melbourneβs largest inner-city parks. The loop passes gardens, sports fields, and natural bushland, providing a mix of shaded and open areas.
Highlights: The trail features native flora, birdwatching opportunities, playgrounds, and open fields perfect for leisurely strolls. It is ideal for pet parents seeking a safe on-lead walking route for their dogs.
Getting there: Accessible via Gatehouse Street and surrounding car parks. Tram routes 19 and 59 provide nearby public transport options.
Walking Map: bellarinebayside.com.au PDF
Trail Details: Yarra Bend Park Walk is a scenic loop along the Yarra River and surrounding bushland. The trail meanders through forested areas, open fields, and wetlands, offering a peaceful escape from the city while still being accessible for pet parents.
Highlights: Enjoy native wildlife sightings, river views, picnic areas, and multiple off-lead dog zones. Seasonal birdwatching is a popular activity, and the walking paths are suitable for all levels.
Getting there: Accessible via Yarra Bend Road and local car parks. Bus routes to Fairfield and nearby stops provide public transport options.
Walking Map: #MAP_TEXT
Trail Details: Jells Park Walk is a peaceful loop around the central lake and surrounding wetlands, ideal for pet parents who want a scenic, low-impact walk. The trail features open lawns, forested sections, and wildlife habitats.
Highlights: The walk offers abundant birdwatching opportunities, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sections for dogs to enjoy off-lead play. Seasonal wildflowers and calm lake views enhance the experience.
Getting there: Accessible via Jells Park Drive with parking at the main car parks. Public transport options include bus routes serving Wheelers Hill.
Walking Map: engage.vic.gov.au JPG
Trail Details: Wilson Botanic Park Walk is a peaceful loop through beautifully landscaped botanic gardens featuring ornamental lakes, native plantings, and shaded picnic areas. The trail is suitable for all ages and offers a gentle stroll for pet parents.
Highlights: The walk showcases diverse gardens, large open lawns, wildlife sightings, and scenic lakeside views. Benches and picnic spots make it perfect for breaks during your walk.
Getting there: Accessible via BerwickβClyde Road and surrounding car parks. Public transport options include nearby bus stops connecting to Berwick train station.
Walking Map: bushwalkingvictoria.org.au PDF
COMING SOON
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Trail Details: This walk follows the Yarra River from Wombat Bend through Finns Reserve, offering a peaceful riverfront experience. The trail is ideal for gentle walking, jogging, and nature observation, with lush vegetation and native wildlife throughout.
Highlights: River views, birdwatching, open grassy areas for play, shaded picnic spots, and scenic boardwalk sections along the water. Pet parents can enjoy a tranquil riverside stroll with their dogs.
Getting there: Accessible from Wombat Bend and Finns Reserve car parks. Nearby bus stops provide public transport access, and there is street parking along adjoining roads.
Walking Map: manningham.vic.gov.au PDF
Trail Details: Lillydale Lake Walk is a family-friendly loop around the scenic lake, offering a mix of open parkland, boardwalks, and shaded areas. Ideal for pet parents seeking a relaxed and safe environment for their dogs.
Highlights: The walk provides lakeside views, picnic spots, playgrounds, and wetlands with native birds. There are accessible paths for strollers and wheelchairs, making it suitable for all visitors.
Getting there: Accessible via Hull Road and surrounding car parks. Bus services connect Lilydale town centre to the lake.
Walking Map: yarraranges.vic.gov.au PDF
Trail Details: This trail follows Mathias Track through lush forest to the Old Olinda Golf Course, then returns along the same path. It offers a peaceful walk through towering mountain ash, fern gullies, and native bushland, ideal for nature-loving pet parents.
Highlights: Dense forest scenery, birdwatching, views over the golf course, and seasonal wildflowers. Well-shaded track sections make it comfortable during warmer months.
Getting there: Accessible via Olinda-Monbulk Road and nearby car parks. Public transport options are limited, so driving is recommended.
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Trail Details: Altona Beach Dog Off Leash Arena is a spacious section of Altona Beach where dogs can run freely and socialise with other dogs. The area is ideal for pet parents who want to give their dogs exercise in a safe, scenic beachfront environment.
Highlights: Enjoy open sand areas, water access for dogs, and opportunities for off-lead play. The beach also has walking paths along the foreshore and nearby picnic spots.
Getting there: Accessible via The Esplanade and nearby car parks. Public transport options include buses along the Altona foreshore.
Walking Map: hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au PDF
Trail Details: Jawbone Foreshore Walk is a peaceful coastal trail along the western shores of Port Phillip Bay. The walk offers open views of the bay, wetlands, and native vegetation, ideal for pet parents seeking a relaxed outdoor experience.
Highlights: Scenic bay views, birdwatching opportunities, nearby picnic areas, and access to off-lead dog zones at the beach. The trail is flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for all fitness levels.
Getting there: Accessible via The Strand and nearby car parks. Public transport options include trains to Williamstown and local buses.
Walking Map: parks.vic.gov.au PDF
COMING SOON
Beach Details: Flinders Dog Beach is one of the Mornington Peninsulaβs most peaceful coastal spots, offering calm shallows, rockpools, and wide sandy sections at low tide. Itβs a favourite among pet parents thanks to its relaxed vibe, natural beauty, and generous off-lead areas.
Highlights: The beach looks out over Western Port, giving it a quiet, sheltered feel. Dogs can explore the sand, splash in gentle waves, and enjoy plenty of sniffing opportunities along the foreshore. Nearby cafΓ©s and the charming Flinders village make it ideal for a relaxed day out.
Getting there: Located at the end of Flinders Foreshore Reserve near the pier. Free parking available along the foreshore and near the yacht club. Best access via Mornington Peninsula Freeway or Western Port Highway.
Map: VIC.gov.au map