Image via TimeOut

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Melbourne’s great outdoors, read on to discover seven of the best walking trails around Melbourne that will definitely get your heart pumping. Our suggested locations have something for everyone whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a relaxing weekend stroll with the family. To top it off, the majority of hiking trails are under an hour drive from Quality Hotel Batman’s Hill! 

1.The 1000 Steps Walk

Image via Adventure Me

The 1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk is an extremely popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. This winding bush trail is set in the heart of the  Dandenong Ranges National Park, just 43-minutes from the hotel. The slow uphill climb is definitely worth the burn to take in the beautiful view from the top. For a great return circuit we recommend taking the Lyrebird Track where you may be able to hear or even spot a Lyrebird scratching around in the wet forest. 

Location: Tree Fern Gully Track, Tremont VIC 3785 

Distance: 4.3km 

Grade: moderate

2.Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk

Image via Aventure Me

Located just a 50-minute drive north-west of Melbourne the Werribee Gorge Circuit is a favorite amongst experienced hikers with a sense of adventure. With everything from on-trail, off-trail, lookouts, descents, climbs, river crossings, cable climbs even rock hopping! We recommend starting your hike from the Meikles Point Picnic Area which is suitable for all levels of experience. However, if you’re looking for more of a challenge we recommend beginning your hike at the Ironbark Gorge carpark which includes steep off-trail descents, rocky hill climbs, and even river crossings. Make sure you wear supportive and comfortable footwear so you can safely tackle the Werribee Gorge. 

Location: Meikles Point Picnic Area, Ingliston VIC 3341 / Ironbark Gorge carpark, Ingliston VIC 3342 

Distance: starting from Meikles Point Picnic Area 10.4km / starting from Ironpark Gorge carpark 12.5km 

Grade: moderate/difficult 

3.Organ Pipes National Park

Image via The Bushwalking Blog

Just a 27-minute drive from Batman’s Hill is the 121-hectare park named after the stunning geological attraction, the 2.5 million-year-old basalt columns that bear a striking resemblance to organ pipes. The short circuit hike takes you on a short tour of the park’s most interesting geological wonders including the Rossette Rock, Tessellated Pavement, and of course the Organ Pipes. Make sure you keep an eye out for the local wildlife as this park is heavily frequented by echidnas, kangaroos, wallabies and even platypus! 

Location: Organ Pipes Road, Keilor North VIC 3036

Distance: 1.5km

Grade: easy

4.Hanging Rock Summit Walk

Image via Macedon Ranges 

Head 57-minute North of Melbourne for the perfect escape from inner-city suburbia. While it is quite a short walk to the summit the steep ascent will definitely get your blood pumping. We recommend setting aside an hour so you explore the myriad of rock formations and admire the stunning panoramic views of the Macedon Ranges.  

Location: Newham, VIC 3442

Distance: 1.8km

Grade: moderate

5.You Yangs Regional Park

Image via TimeOut 

Situated between Melbourne and Geelong, this dog-friendly park is located just a 49-minute drive from Batman’s Hill On Collins. Rated one of Melbourne’s best regional parks that welcomes hiking enthusiasts, mountain bikers and experienced horse riders. We recommend the Flinders Peak Walk which takes you to the highest point of the You Yangs. Treat the family to a picnic at the top and enjoy the uninterrupted views of the stunning boulder-strewn landscape. 

Location: Turntable Drive , Little River VIC 2311

Distance: 3.2km

Grade: moderate/difficult

6.Bushrangers Bay Trail

Image via Visit Melbourne 

Just one hour and twenty-four minutes drive from Batman’s Hill on Collins is the Bushrangers Bay Trail which skirts the rugged coastline of Mornington Peninsula. Follow the scenic boardwalk to the famous Cape Schanck lighthouse. The track finishes at Sandy Beach which is surrounded by stunning basalt cliffs and the rocky island known as Elephants Rock. Make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to stop and take in the sweeping views over the Bass Strait and the abundance of native bird-life. 

Location: Cape Schanck Road, Cape Schnack VIC 3939

Distance: 6km

Grade: Moderate 

7.Lerderderg State Park

Image via Visit Melbourne 

Part of the aboriginal cultural landscape that is just one hour and 10-minutes drive from Batman’s Hotel. For experienced hikers, we recommend the Lerderderg Gorge Circuit Walk which begins at the Mackenzies Flat picnic area and guides you along the natural path of the river. You can expect to encounter plenty of native flora and fauna, rock hopping, river crossings and even ancient relics from the old gold mine.

Location: Lerderderg Gorge Road, Coimadai VIC 3340

Distance: 13.5km

Grade: Moderate 

Visiting Melbourne for a short or extended stay? Book with Batman’s Hill on Collins, the ideal CBD accommodation with easy access to regional areas of Melbourne to enjoy the peaceful Victorian bushland.