Updated on August 9, 2026
Warrandyte State Park is home to the beautiful Mount Lofty circuit walk, one of the best and most popular walking trails near Melbourne.
At an elevation of 122 metres, Mount Lofty can scarcely claim the title of being a mountain. However, it’s still a top hike with impressive views across the Yarra Valley, along with a gorgeous, meandering trail alongside the Yarra River.
Getting to the Mount Lofty Circuit Walk, Warrandyte State Park:
- Parking is at Wittons Reserve, on the banks of the Yarra River
- The circuit walk is about 5.5 kms, but it’s easy to extend
- Phone reception is good, but download an offline map to be sure
- No dogs allowed
- No toilets
- No Cafes
- Swimming is allowed
- Popular spot for starting or ending a kayak trip on the Yarra River
Starting the Mt Lofty Walking Trail: Which Track to Take?
When entering the Witton’s Reserve car park, the Mount Lofty walking track begins on the right, clearly marked and easy to find.
Numerous tracks crisscross the park, making it fun to take whichever route you fancy. Head over the wooden bridge spanning Brushy Creek where it meets the Yarra River. The paths are wide and well-maintained by Parks Victoria.
Our Chosen Mount Lofty Route for The Day
On this occasion, we headed right at the first junction straight up the steep hill, through Eucalyptus forest, and were soon rewarded with fabulous views across the Yarra Valley and stretching to the Dandenong Ranges. Farms, vineyards, mountain vistas, and the Yarra River are all laid out before you.
The bush opens up at the top to reveal grassland where Eastern Grey kangaroos graze and relax. Look out for Echidnas, and with over 100 species of birds in the area, the sounds of nature are a delight. We chanced upon an Echidna!
From here, we made the trek up to the official summit of Mount Lofty, then retraced our steps a short way, followed Stephen Road down to Lower Homestead Road, and walked to the canoe launch area to check the river level, ideal paddling levels that day!
A group of white water kayakers from Melbourne Uni was preparing to enter the river for the 5km trip down to Wittons Reserve.
A narrow, marked track leads off to the left, and it follows the river closely all the way to rejoin the main trail. However, this track is not level; it’s narrow, slippery in sections and can occasionally be impassable.
It is not part of the official Mount Lofty circuit walk, but I love it because it follows the river so closely.
Pack a Picnic, Stay for the Day
Occasional beach seats and characterful, old picnic tables are dotted around the Mount Lofty walking trails. The Warrandyte State Park is ideal for most reasonably fit folk. It’s perfect for kids to romp because of the variety of terrain and scenery.
Pack a picnic and enjoy an outdoor feast at the summit or by the river!
