Fernshaw Picnic Area
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Fernshaw Picnic Area

4.3
·78 reviews·Fernshaw, Australia

Step into a living arboretum at Fernshaw, home to towering sequoias and the history of Victoria's giant mountain ash.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more tranquility

CrowdLow
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Fernshaw Picnic Area

Fernshaw Picnic Area

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more tranquility

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a living arboretum at Fernshaw, home to towering sequoias and the history of Victoria's giant mountain ash.

4.3
(78 reviews)

"A haven for tree lovers, offering a glimpse into nature's grand history and a peaceful picnic escape."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 Leave No Trace

Bring a bag for your rubbish as bins are limited. Help keep this beautiful spot pristine!

🌳 Explore the Walks

Enjoy toddler-friendly bush walks amidst magnificent trees. Note: dogs are not allowed on the trails.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Majestic Sequoia Trees

Majestic Sequoia Trees

Stand in awe of these giants, a living testament to nature's grandeur and the forest's rich history.

Mountain Ash History

Mountain Ash History

Discover the fascinating stories of Victoria's once-tallest trees and the forest's impressive past.

Shaded Picnic Haven

Shaded Picnic Haven

Relax under the canopy of pine trees, enjoying a peaceful meal amidst vibrant greenery and birdlife.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Giants

Prepare to be awestruck by towering trees, including remnants of Victoria's tallest mountain ash. Learn about their history and the forest's past. Pack a picnic to fully enjoy this natural arboretum.

Practicalities for Your Visit

While beautiful, note that dogs aren't permitted on walks. Bring a bag for your rubbish as bins are scarce. The highway noise can be noticeable, but the shade and wildlife offer a peaceful respite.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Sunlight filters through trees
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

It’s giving secret summer paradise 📍Ferntree Gully Quarry Reserve #creatorsearchinsights #picnics #hiddenspot #trails #naturewalk
@nithelabel
9.7K likes • 387K views

🐾 Leave No Trace

Bring a bag for your rubbish as bins are limited. Help keep this beautiful spot pristine! Reddit

🌳 Explore the Walks

Enjoy toddler-friendly bush walks amidst magnificent trees. Note: dogs are not allowed on the trails. Reddit

These Victorian Mountain Ash forests in the fog are stunning 😍🙌. To trail run amongst these giants head to… 1. Toolangi State Forest (Tanglefoot loop) 2. Fernshaw Picnic Area on the Black Spur Maroondah Hwy. Head up Morley track. 3. Warburton State Forest 4. Bunyip State Park #trailrunning #trailbustours
trail_bus
223 likes • 2.7K views
reddit.com

Recommendations for Yarra Valley

🚗 Highway Noise Advisory

Be aware that the nearby highway can be noisy. Consider earplugs if sensitive. Reddit

🌲 Secret Summer Paradise

Discover this hidden gem for a peaceful picnic and nature escape. TikTok

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Leave No Trace

Bring a bag for your rubbish as bins are limited. Help keep this beautiful spot pristine! Reddit

🌳 Explore the Walks

Enjoy toddler-friendly bush walks amidst magnificent trees. Note: dogs are not allowed on the trails. Reddit

🚗 Highway Noise Advisory

Be aware that the nearby highway can be noisy. Consider earplugs if sensitive. Reddit

🌲 Secret Summer Paradise

Discover this hidden gem for a peaceful picnic and nature escape. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(78 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Fernshaw Picnic Area for its stunning arboretum-like feel, dominated by majestic trees and historical insights into giant mountain ashes. It's a peaceful spot for picnics with good shade and wildlife, though highway noise and a lack of bins are noted drawbacks.

"Fernshaw Picnic Area is like stepping into an arboretum—a living museum of trees! It's a haven for tree lovers, with a stunning variety of species that make you feel connected to nature's grand history.

One of the highlights is seeing the majestic sequoia trees. They stand tall and proud, offering a glimpse into another world. There’s also some fantastic information about the mountain ash (Eucalyptus regnans), which adds depth to your visit. The signage talks about how this area was once home to some of the tallest trees in Victoria, including a mountain ash that reached incredible heights. It’s fascinating to learn that in the late 1800s, the tallest tree in Victoria was a mountain ash that stood about 132.6 meters tall—a true giant among giants!

The picnic area itself is beautifully enhanced by the presence of pine trees. They light up the space with their vibrant green needles, providing a refreshing ambiance. It’s the perfect spot to relax, have a bite, and take in the surroundings.

And let’s not forget the practical side—there’s a toilet on-site! It’s well-maintained and a welcome relief, especially on long drives through the region.

Fernshaw Picnic Area is a wonderful blend of natural beauty and history, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling through the area."

Timothy Wilson-Douglas

"Lovely shaded picnic ground with some really interesting walks nearby. Dogs are not allowed on the walks unfortunately, and there's a few picnic benches, grass areas and lots of shade under the trees. There are some toilets nearby and a few information boards too. Great for a brief stop-off for a toilet break and a quick snack."

Kerbray

"Such a nice spot to have a rest, their is only one BBQ a few picnic tables, toilets, heaps of birds and wild life, nice walk but there is lots of trees down and No bins so bring a bag to take your rubbish with you"

Sarah Jenkins

What People Like

Impressive tree collection
Peaceful picnic atmosphere
Historical tree information

What People Dislike

Highway noise
No bins provided

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Fernshaw Picnic Area is located off the Black Spur on Maroondah Highway. You can access it by car, and it's a scenic drive through the Yarra Valley region. Instagram

Public transport options to Fernshaw Picnic Area are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle for flexibility. Consider local tour operators if you prefer not to drive. Instagram

The drive along Maroondah Highway is generally well-maintained, but can be winding. Be mindful of other vehicles, especially cyclists and trail runners. Instagram

Absolutely! It's a perfect spot for a brief stop to stretch your legs, use the facilities, and enjoy a quick snack during your Yarra Valley exploration. Reddit

Yes, Fernshaw is situated in the beautiful Yarra Valley, close to Healesville Sanctuary and various wineries. It's a great stop on your way to or from these destinations. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Fernshaw Picnic Area is generally free to enter. It's a public picnic ground designed for visitors to enjoy the natural surroundings. Reddit

Fernshaw Picnic Area is typically open from dawn till dusk, as it's an outdoor public space. Always check local park advisories for any temporary closures. Reddit

No booking is required for general use. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis for picnic tables and BBQ facilities. Reddit

Dogs are not permitted on the walking tracks. Otherwise, general access is open to the public. Reddit

You'll find picnic tables, a BBQ, toilets, and information boards. Remember to bring your own rubbish bags. Reddit

🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience

Fernshaw is like an arboretum, featuring a stunning variety of trees, including majestic sequoias and informative displays about the historical mountain ash. Reddit

Yes, there are lovely walking trails nearby, offering a chance to explore the bushland. However, dogs are not allowed on these walks. Reddit

Yes, the picnic grounds are pleasant, and there are toddler-friendly walking options nearby. It's a good spot for a relaxed family outing. Reddit

Visitors often report seeing heaps of birds and other local wildlife, adding to the natural charm of the picnic area. Reddit

Some visitors note that the noise from the highway can be a downside. However, many find the natural surroundings and shade offer a good distraction. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a BBQ available for use at Fernshaw Picnic Area, making it a great spot for a picnic lunch. Reddit

While Fernshaw itself is a picnic spot, you'll find dining options in nearby towns like Healesville, which offers cafes and restaurants. Reddit

Bring your food, drinks, and a bag for rubbish. There are picnic tables and a BBQ, but no bins, so pack it in, pack it out. Reddit

There is no mention of potable water facilities. It's advisable to bring your own water supply for drinking and cooking. Reddit

The closest places to buy food would be in Healesville or other towns along the Maroondah Highway. It's best to stock up before you arrive. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the towering trees, especially the sequoias and mountain ash. The shaded picnic areas with dappled light also make for beautiful shots. TikTok

Yes, it's a fantastic spot for nature photography, with impressive trees and opportunities to capture local birdlife and forest scenes. Reddit

Mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful light filtering through the trees, creating a magical atmosphere for photography. TikTok

Yes, the information boards detailing the forest's history and giant trees are interesting subjects for photography. Reddit

The main viewpoints are around the picnic tables and along the walking tracks where you can get close to the impressive tree specimens. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Fernshaw Picnic Area is a great stop for families looking for a peaceful break. The toddler-friendly walks offer a chance for little ones to explore nature safely. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the tables, and keep an eye out for the abundant birdlife that frequents the area. Remember to bring a bag for your rubbish, as bins are scarce, and be aware that dogs are not allowed on the walking trails. Reddit+1

It's a wonderful spot to break up a longer drive, offering a chance to stretch legs and connect with the impressive trees. The historical information about the giant mountain ash can also be an engaging learning experience for curious young minds. Reddit

🌳 Nature Enthusiasts & Tree Lovers

This picnic area is a dream for anyone fascinated by trees. You'll be surrounded by impressive arboreal specimens, including towering sequoias and informative displays about the historical mountain ash giants that once stood here. It's a living museum of forest history and a fantastic opportunity for photography. TikTokReddit

Take your time to wander the nearby trails (remembering no dogs allowed) and appreciate the scale of these natural wonders. The shaded picnic spots are perfect for a leisurely lunch while soaking in the serene atmosphere. Reddit+1

🚗 Day-Trippers & Road Trippers

Fernshaw Picnic Area serves as an excellent convenient stop along the Maroondah Highway, perfect for breaking up a journey through the Yarra Valley. It offers essential facilities like toilets and picnic tables, making it ideal for a quick rest and a bite to eat. Reddit

While the highway noise is a consideration, the shaded environment and natural beauty provide a pleasant respite. It's a chance to experience a slice of the region's magnificent forest without a significant detour. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Giants of Fernshaw: A Living Arboretum

Fernshaw Picnic Area is renowned for its impressive collection of trees, offering visitors a unique arboretum-like experience. You'll encounter majestic sequoia trees that transport you to another world, standing as silent sentinels of time. The area also holds significant historical importance, with detailed signage explaining the mountain ash (Eucalyptus regnans) that once dominated the landscape. These trees were among the tallest in Victoria, with one recorded at an astonishing 132.6 meters in the late 1800s. Learning about these giants adds a profound layer to your visit, connecting you to the region's natural heritage. Reddit

The presence of pine trees further enhances the ambiance, their vibrant green needles creating a refreshing and shaded environment. This makes Fernshaw an ideal spot for a relaxing picnic or a quiet moment of reflection amidst nature's grandeur. The combination of historical context and living specimens makes Fernshaw a truly special destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Reddit

While the forest itself is the main draw, the practical amenities like on-site toilets are a welcome convenience, especially for those on longer journeys through the Yarra Valley. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the scale and history of Victoria's forests. Reddit

Exploring the Trails: A Toddler-Friendly Escape

For families with young children, Fernshaw Picnic Area offers accessible toddler-friendly walking opportunities that allow you to immerse yourselves in the magnificent forest environment. These walks provide a gentle introduction to the bushland, perfect for little legs to explore. Reddit

It's important to note that dogs are not permitted on the walking tracks at Fernshaw. This policy helps preserve the natural habitat and ensures a peaceful experience for all visitors and wildlife. Always check local park regulations for the most up-to-date information on pet access. Reddit

While the trails are generally well-maintained, some reviews mention fallen trees, so be mindful of your footing. The overall experience is one of serene natural beauty, making it a worthwhile stop for a short, refreshing nature walk. Reddit

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