Brisbane Ranges National Park
A serene national park near Melbourne, perfect for hiking, wildlife spotting, and escaping into nature's embrace.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, wildlife active
Brisbane Ranges National Park
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, wildlife active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene national park near Melbourne, perfect for hiking, wildlife spotting, and escaping into nature's embrace.
"A refreshing escape into nature with beautiful hikes and wildlife, truly worth the visit."
🚶♀️ Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be rocky and steep; good hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety .
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no shops here, so pack enough water for your entire visit, especially for longer hikes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ted Errey Nature Circuit
Anakie Gorge Picnic Area
A 11-12km loop showcasing diverse flora, fauna, and stunning lookouts. Perfect for a day trip!
Anakie Gorge Walk
Anakie Gorge Picnic Area
A shorter, family-friendly 7km return walk with opportunities to spot kangaroos and wallabies.
Wildflower Displays
Various locations
In spring, the park bursts with color, featuring beautiful grass trees and native blooms.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Bush: What to Pack
Timing is Everything: Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be rocky and steep; good hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no shops here, so pack enough water for your entire visit, especially for longer hikes.
🦘 Spot Local Wildlife
Keep an eye out for kangaroos, wallabies, and native birds, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
🚫 Leave Dogs at Home
Dogs are not permitted in the park to protect the native wildlife and ecosystem.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be rocky and steep; good hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There are no shops here, so pack enough water for your entire visit, especially for longer hikes.
🦘 Spot Local Wildlife
Keep an eye out for kangaroos, wallabies, and native birds, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
🚫 Leave Dogs at Home
Dogs are not permitted in the park to protect the native wildlife and ecosystem.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal amidst nature at one of the many picnic areas with tables and fireplaces.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Brisbane Ranges National Park for its refreshing escape into nature, offering beautiful hiking trails and opportunities to see wildlife. The park is appreciated for its peaceful atmosphere and accessibility as a day trip from Melbourne. However, some note that it's more suited for bushwalking than casual strolls and parking can be limited.
"A Wonderful Day Out at Brisbane Ranges National Park
We spent a beautiful day exploring Brisbane Ranges National Park and it was such a refreshing escape into nature. If you’re looking for a place to hike, relax, and take in some fresh air, this park really delivers. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during your visit:
Playground
As it’s a true national park experience, there are no playgrounds here — and honestly, that’s part of the charm. It's all about getting out into nature. Make sure you're dressed appropriately for hiking and that you bring plenty of water, especially if you're planning a longer walk. It’s the perfect spot for those wanting to swap screen time for real outdoor adventures.
Restrooms
There are male and female toilets located at the main car parks, which is super convenient after a hike or picnic. We were happy to find that toilet paper was supplied, and the facilities were basic but clean. It’s a great setup considering you’re out in the bush.
Dog-Friendliness
As noted clearly on the Parks Victoria website, dogs are not allowed in Brisbane Ranges National Park. It’s really important to respect this rule to protect the local wildlife and delicate ecosystem. It’s worth planning ahead if you're used to hiking with your dog — leave them at home for this adventure and enjoy the park’s natural beauty uninterrupted.
Picnic Areas
One of the highlights was the picnic setups throughout the park. There are lots of picnic tables and benches at various car parks and trailheads, making it easy to stop for a meal or a snack. Some areas also have fireplaces, which really added to the atmosphere. We even saw a family who had set up a perfect long weekend picnic, with a cozy fire burning under full control — the smell of the wood smoke was amazing and instantly reminded me of my travels through Tasmania. It created such a relaxed and inviting vibe, making it feel even more like a true escape from the city.
Final Thoughts
Brisbane Ranges National Park offers a real sense of adventure while still being very accessible. From peaceful bushwalks and scenic lookouts to the sounds of nature all around, it’s a great spot to reset and reconnect. Whether you’re in for a serious hike or a laid-back picnic day, it’s definitely worth a visit. We’ll definitely be back for more hikes and to explore even deeper into this beautiful, underrated park."
Kia Yang
"Really nice hike with beautiful views. Some rocky steep parts, but having a stick really eases the journey. Very enjoyable."
Susu
"Heaps of trails to explore. Spring flowers are great and there are some beautiful grass trees. Keep your eyes out for black wallabies and kangaroos."
S H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Brisbane Ranges National Park is approximately a 1-hour drive from Melbourne, making it a popular day trip destination.
The most convenient way to reach the park is by car. Major access points include the Anakie Gorge Picnic Area, which serves as a trailhead for popular walks.
Public transport options are limited. While you can get to nearby towns like Anakie or Ballan by train, you'll likely need a taxi or rideshare to reach the park itself, which can be unreliable.
Yes, there are parking areas at main trailheads like the Anakie Gorge Picnic Area. However, during peak times, parking can be limited, so arriving early is recommended.
Most of the main access roads and picnic areas are accessible with a 2WD vehicle. However, some unsealed tracks might be better suited for 4WD, especially after rain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Brisbane Ranges National Park is free. You can explore its trails and picnic areas without any admission charges.
The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to check the Parks Victoria website for any specific alerts or temporary closures.
As there is no entry fee, no advance booking or passes are required to enter Brisbane Ranges National Park.
Day hiking and picnicking do not require permits. If you plan to camp, you will need to check with Parks Victoria for specific camping regulations and potential permit requirements, though camping is not a primary focus of this park.
Dogs and other pets are strictly prohibited in Brisbane Ranges National Park to protect the native wildlife and its delicate ecosystem.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Ted Errey Nature Circuit (11km loop) and the Anakie Gorge Walk (7km return) are highly recommended for their scenic beauty and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Yes, basic but clean restrooms are available at the main car parks, including the Anakie Gorge Picnic Area.
Numerous picnic tables and benches are scattered throughout the park, with some areas featuring fireplaces, making it ideal for a relaxed meal.
The Anakie Gorge Walk is a good option for families, being a shorter and less strenuous walk. However, there are no playgrounds, as the focus is on natural exploration.
You might spot kangaroos, wallabies, and various native bird species. Keep an eye out, especially during dawn and dusk.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Lookouts along the Ted Errey Nature Circuit offer panoramic views, while the Anakie Gorge provides opportunities for intimate shots of flora and fauna.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for landscape and wildlife photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can help capture distant wildlife. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
Focus on the unique grass trees, the vibrant wildflowers in spring, and the diverse birdlife. The dramatic sunsets can also be spectacular.
Challenging lighting in dense bushland and the potential for wildlife to be shy can be tricky. Patience and good timing are key.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no playgrounds, the natural environment itself is the playground. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and ensure kids wear comfortable shoes for walking. The picnic areas are perfect for a family lunch amidst nature.🚶♀️ Avid Hikers
+2 Consider bringing a walking stick for added support on steeper sections.🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking the Brisbane Ranges
+2 For a shorter, more family-friendly option, the Anakie Gorge Walk is about 7km return and is known for its tranquil atmosphere and opportunities to see kangaroos and wallabies. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some sections can be rocky and steep.Wildlife Encounters
Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the variety of species, from colourful parrots to smaller bush birds. While less common, there's also a chance to see koalas in the eucalyptus trees.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit