Mount St Leonard
Discover breathtaking panoramic views from the Mount St Leonard lookout, surrounded by lush rainforest in the Yarra Ranges.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for panoramic views
Mount St Leonard
Best Time
Best chance for panoramic views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover breathtaking panoramic views from the Mount St Leonard lookout, surrounded by lush rainforest in the Yarra Ranges.
"The view is amazing on the smaller platform, the tall one is private property so the gate is always locked with no access."
🎯 Check Weather Forecast
Clear skies are essential for the best views from the lookout. :cloud:
🚶♀️ Be Prepared to Walk
The gate is often closed, so factor in a 1.2km walk up the gravel road. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mount St Leonard Lookout
Summit
Panoramic views stretching up to 60km, offering glimpses of Melbourne on a clear day.
Cool Temperate Rainforest Walk
Base of the mountain
Wander through towering Mountain Ash and lush tree ferns on the path to the summit.
Maroondah Reservoir Dam Wall
Near Healesville
An imposing 41m tall dam wall offering impressive views and a scenic spot to explore.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check the Weather for Clear Views
Gate Access and Walking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Weather Forecast
Clear skies are essential for the best views from the lookout. :cloud:
🚶♀️ Be Prepared to Walk
The gate is often closed, so factor in a 1.2km walk up the gravel road. :athletic_shoe:
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The path can be steep in places, and the steps to the platform are steep and can be slippery. :hiking_boot:
📸 Capture the Views
On a clear day, you can see Melbourne city 60km away. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Weather Forecast
Clear skies are essential for the best views from the lookout. :cloud:
🚶♀️ Be Prepared to Walk
The gate is often closed, so factor in a 1.2km walk up the gravel road. :athletic_shoe:
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The path can be steep in places, and the steps to the platform are steep and can be slippery. :hiking_boot:
📸 Capture the Views
On a clear day, you can see Melbourne city 60km away. :camerawithflash:
🚫 No Facilities Onsite
Bring your own water and snacks as there are no amenities at the carpark. :water_wave:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Mount St Leonard for its stunning panoramic views, especially on clear days, and the enjoyable rainforest walk. While the higher platform is often inaccessible and the gate may be closed, requiring a walk, the overall experience is considered well worth the effort. The lack of facilities is a minor drawback for some.
"Came in the morning on a nice sunny day, the gate is always closed but that just means you'll have to walk up the gravel road that leads to the lookout. A bit of an incline on the way up but well worth it! The view is amazing on the smaller platform, the tall one is private property so the gate is always locked with no access.
Come on a day with nice weather otherwise you might not get a clear view of the lookout👍"
R G
"900m walk, nah, more like 1300m, easy track, well kept. Could do it with a sturdy pram. Good steep enough track to make it a bit of a challenge at speed. Vies beautiful and not many other visitors. Could see Melbourne city 60km off which was lovely, and other view points of interest worth looking at."
Caitlin Traynor
"The gate was closed so we walked it up for around 20 minutes and then on the smaller platform, the higher platform was locked but the view was still incredible and worth the walk!"
S G
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mount St Leonard is about a 1.5-hour drive from the Melbourne CBD. The carpark is located at the intersection of Monda Rd & RD10.
Public transport options are limited. It's best to drive or consider a tour that includes Mount St Leonard as part of a Yarra Valley itinerary.
The gate to the lookout is often closed, meaning you'll need to walk the remaining 1.2km up the gravel road.
The 1.2km walk is generally considered easy, with a slight incline. The steps to the viewing platform are steep.
From Melbourne, head east towards the Yarra Valley. Follow signs for Healesville and then continue towards Mount St Leonard. Use a GPS for precise navigation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Mount St Leonard and its walking tracks is free.
The park is generally open from 8 am daily, but closing times can vary seasonally. It's best to check online or Google for the most up-to-date information.
No booking is required as Mount St Leonard is a free public access area.
The higher platform is often locked and considered private property. Visitors typically access the smaller, open platform.
The 1.2km walk is on a gravel road, but strollers and wheelchairs would need to be lifted over the gate. The steps to the platform are not accessible.
📸 📸 Photography
For the clearest panoramic shots, aim for a sunny morning. Sunset can also offer beautiful golden hour light if the sky is clear.
You can capture sweeping landscape views, including distant cityscapes on clear days, as well as the surrounding rainforest and tree ferns.
The main lookout platform offers the most expansive views. The rainforest trails also provide opportunities for atmospheric nature photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures at sunset.
Drone regulations vary. It's essential to check current Australian aviation rules and any local park restrictions before flying a drone.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
The main activities include walking the track to the lookout for panoramic views and exploring the surrounding rainforest.
There are no facilities such as restrooms or picnic areas at the Mount St Leonard carpark.
The walk from the gate to the lookout is approximately 1.2km and takes about 20-30 minutes depending on your pace.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, layers of clothing as the weather can change, and bring water.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can find spots along the walk to enjoy a packed lunch.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the steps to the platform are steep, the main lookout area is open and offers a safe space for children to enjoy the views. Ensure they wear sturdy shoes, and keep a close eye on them near the platform edges. It's a fantastic way to introduce children to the beauty of the Yarra Ranges National Park.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Pack your own food and drinks to avoid purchasing them at inflated prices. This makes it an ideal destination for a cost-effective day trip or a scenic stop on a longer road trip through the Yarra Valley.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Yarra Ranges National Park
Beyond Mount St Leonard, the Yarra Ranges National Park boasts numerous other walking tracks, scenic drives, and natural attractions. Visitors can explore areas like the Maroondah Reservoir Park, which features an impressive dam wall and walking paths, or venture further to discover waterfalls and diverse wildlife. It's a fantastic destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape from the city.
When planning your visit, remember that weather in the ranges can be unpredictable. It's always wise to check forecasts and be prepared for cooler temperatures and potential rain, even on a sunny day in Melbourne. The park offers a refreshing contrast to the urban landscape and is a vital part of Victoria's natural heritage.
The Mount St Leonard Lookout Experience
It's important to note that the higher viewing platform is typically inaccessible. Visitors usually access a smaller, open platform that still provides excellent views. The walk to the lookout, while sometimes requiring a short hike due to a closed gate, is generally manageable and well-maintained, making the reward of the view well worth the effort.
For the best experience, timing is key. Visiting on a day with clear skies is crucial to fully appreciate the expansive views. Early mornings or late afternoons, especially around sunset, can offer particularly stunning light conditions, though crowds may increase during these popular times.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit