Sugarloaf Reservoir Park
A serene reservoir park near Melbourne, offering scenic walks, abundant wildlife, and picturesque picnic spots for a perfect day out.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, pleasant temps
Sugarloaf Reservoir Park
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene reservoir park near Melbourne, offering scenic walks, abundant wildlife, and picturesque picnic spots for a perfect day out.
"It's the most beautiful place, a painter's paradise when the leaves are changing in autumn."
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
No water taps on the trails! Carry enough for your entire visit, especially for the 20km walk.
🦘 Respect Wildlife
Observe kangaroos and birds from a distance. They are more likely to approach if given space.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 36 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Reservoir Circuit Walk
Full 20km loop
An 18-20km well-marked trail offering magnificent views and wildlife encounters. Perfect for a full day's adventure.
Western Lookout Views
Western Lookout
Capture panoramic vistas of the reservoir and the distant Melbourne CBD, especially breathtaking at sunset.
Picnic and BBQ Areas
Saddle Dam Picnic Ground & others
Enjoy family picnics with BBQs and ample space. Some areas offer direct access to the water's edge.
Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the park
Keep an eye out for kangaroos and diverse birdlife. Remember to give wildlife plenty of space.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Sugarloaf Reservoir
Best Times for Tranquility and Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
No water taps on the trails! Carry enough for your entire visit, especially for the 20km walk.
🦘 Respect Wildlife
Observe kangaroos and birds from a distance. They are more likely to approach if given space.
🚫 No Pets Allowed
As a water supply, dogs are not permitted in the park.
🚗 Easy Access Circuit
Explore the scenic circuit by car, with designated parking and walking paths.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
No water taps on the trails! Carry enough for your entire visit, especially for the 20km walk.
🦘 Respect Wildlife
Observe kangaroos and birds from a distance. They are more likely to approach if given space.
🚫 No Pets Allowed
As a water supply, dogs are not permitted in the park.
🚗 Easy Access Circuit
Explore the scenic circuit by car, with designated parking and walking paths.
📸 Painter's Paradise
Autumn foliage provides stunning backdrops for photography and painting.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Sugarloaf Reservoir Park for its stunning natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and excellent walking trails, making it a favorite escape from the city. While some note the dryness of the reservoir itself, the overall experience is highly valued for its scenic views, wildlife, and family-friendly picnic spots.
"Great place to spend a sunny afternoon. Nice walk around the reservoir. Picnic area and toilets block. Great for kids and adults"
Benjamin MICHONNET
"This is one of my favourite places to visit.
It's a little dry at the moment...ironically as its literally a reservoir, but that aside it's the most beautiful place.
It's a bit of a drive from the CBD but we'll worth the trip.
There are two main picnic areas and BBQs and plenty of room for family picnics.
Magnificent views all over the place and a painters paradise when the leaves are changing in autumn.
Being a water supply, no dogs sadly, they'd love it😔, but I'm sure we can understand the theory behind the rule.
The main reason I go tho is to go for a walk on the marked walking trail.
You can go the full lap (@ 20 KMs) which is a terrific walk. I wouldn't on a very hot day tho. The trail is well marked.
You can also go part of the way of course and head back which I've often done.
At the top of the hill - not quite half way - the is a long drop toilet if you need to go.
But the view from that point is amazing.
You can see the CBD in the distance towards the sunset.
If you were thinking of proposing one day, I reckon that'd be a great spot. Especially on a beautiful spring day.
You'll see a few Roo's on the walk, if you give them the space they like they certainly won't bother you.
And there is a nice but if bird life to enjoy.
There is also a beautiful little plaque hidden away, it seems to be a tribute to a beautiful moment shared between two lovers.
It used to be on the second bridge but over the years it deteriorated to the point that you couldn't read the inscription any longer.
Then someone broke it off.
Some kind sentimental person has restored it but unfortunately hasn't used the right sealer so it deteriorated a little quite quickly.
But it's a beautiful little thing that often takes my breath away thinking of the moment they shared.
So I encourage you to go for a walk, have a picnic with friends.
It's very quiet now, I don't often see many people visiting so if you enjoy a little tranquility, I highly recommend the spot.
Love
Rob"
Robert Thwaites
"A great walk (18klms) and very easy to follow. Just make sure you take water with you as the park has absolutely NO water taps that I could find - which is a shame. Lots of wildlife and quiet spots to enjoy around the reservoir."
Paul Himmelreich
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sugarloaf Reservoir Park is located approximately one hour's drive from Melbourne's CBD. The drive is scenic and well worth the trip for the tranquility it offers.
Public transport options to Sugarloaf Reservoir Park are limited. It is best accessed by car. 
There are designated car parks available, including at the Saddle Dam Picnic Ground.
Yes, you can drive a scenic circuit around the reservoir, with access to various lookouts and picnic spots.
While walking is popular, cycling is permitted on some designated paths. Check local signage for specific cycling routes within the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Sugarloaf Reservoir Park is generally free.
The park is typically open daily from dawn till dusk. It's advisable to check the official Parks Victoria website for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
No, advance booking is not required for general entry to Sugarloaf Reservoir Park.
The primary restriction is that dogs are not allowed due to the park's function as a water supply. Visitors are also expected to adhere to park rules regarding waste disposal and environmental protection.
In some designated areas, you can access the water's edge, particularly near picnic spots. However, swimming is generally not permitted due to water quality regulations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The full 18-20km circuit walk is highly recommended for a comprehensive experience. Shorter sections are also available for a less strenuous outing.
Yes, there are multiple picnic areas with BBQs and seating. The Saddle Dam Picnic Ground is a popular choice, offering beautiful views and access to the water.
You're likely to spot kangaroos and a variety of birdlife. Remember to observe them from a safe distance and avoid feeding them.
Absolutely! It's a great spot for families with picnic areas, open spaces, and gentle walking paths suitable for children.
Facilities include picnic tables, BBQs, and toilets. However, note that water taps are not available on the walking trails.
📸 📸 Photography
The Western Lookout offers stunning panoramic views, especially at sunset.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting.
Drone usage is subject to strict regulations, especially in national parks and water catchment areas. It's essential to check the latest rules with Parks Victoria before flying a drone.
Look for the reflections on the water, the changing colors of the trees in autumn, and the distant city skyline from the lookouts.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit