Walking Tracks

The Olinda Falls lower viewing platform is currently closed due to severe damage caused by a fallen tree. Say up-to-date here.

Overview

A Serene Escape into Victoria’s Dandenong Ranges

Nestled in the verdant Dandenong Ranges of Victoria, Australia, the Olinda Falls Walking Track offers visitors an enchanting journey through lush forest landscapes. This serene trail winds its way through ancient fern gullies and towering eucalyptus trees, culminating in the breathtaking beauty of the Olinda Falls, a cascading waterfall that provides a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts and casual walkers alike.

The track is a hidden gem within the Dandenong Ranges National Park, a region celebrated for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural scenery. Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Olinda Falls Walking Track makes for an accessible yet invigorating day trip, providing a perfect blend of physical activity and peaceful immersion in one of Victoria’s most picturesque settings.

Winding through a habitat teeming with birdlife, the track offers visitors opportunities to spot local fauna such as the lyrebird, which is known for its astonishing ability to mimic sounds, and various species of brightly colored parrots. The crisp forest air, the sound of trickling water, and the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy create a sensory experience that recharges the spirit and mind.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a family seeking a gentle adventure, or a visitor drawn to the soothing sounds of flowing water, the Olinda Falls Walking Track promises a rewarding encounter with nature’s splendor. The well-maintained paths and clear signage ensure an enjoyable trek for all ages and fitness levels, inviting everyone to step into a world where the tranquility of the forest meets the gentle rush of the falls.

Tracks

Lower Falls Track

Duration & Difficulty 

This trail is approximately a 350-meter return walk, and it’s considered relatively easy, making it suitable for families with young children or those seeking a gentle stroll.

Path Description

This well-maintained track winds down gradually through the dense forest, leading directly to the lower viewing platform. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the tranquil sounds of the stream and the fresh scent of eucalyptus leaves.

Features

At the end of the track, visitors are rewarded with a close-up view of the lower section of the falls. The lower platform provides an excellent spot for photography, quiet reflection, and experiencing the misty ambiance created by the cascading water.

Upper Falls Track

Duration & Difficulty

Slightly longer than the Lower Falls Track, this one spans around 500 meters return, featuring some gentle inclines and stairs that add a bit more challenge to the walk.

Path Description

The Upper Falls Track guides visitors through a similarly lush landscape, with more elevation changes that offer varying perspectives of the surrounding forest. The trail is well-marked and maintained, ensuring that hikers can navigate safely as they explore.

Features

Upon reaching the upper viewing platform, visitors gain a spectacular view of the upper segment of Olinda Falls. The vantage point here offers a broader perspective of the falls’ cascade and the forested backdrop, making it particularly photogenic.

Additional Highlights

Picnic Areas

Near the parking area at the trailhead, several picnic tables and facilities are available. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature either before or after your walk.

Wildlife Watching

The walking tracks are habitats for diverse flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for native bird species, including the spectacular lyrebird and colorful parrots, as well as marsupials that inhabit the forest.