Kalorama Reserve Dog Off Leash Area

Kalorama Memorial Reserve sits on the corner of Mt Dandenong Tourist Road and Grange Road in the Dandenong Ranges, and its off-leash area is a big, sloped, open paddock with views out over Silvan Reservoir and the Yarra Valley. It's off-leash 24 hours a day, and the space is large enough for a proper game of fetch, not just a quick lap.

The rules. Yarra Ranges Council designates the reserve off-leash, but there are conditions worth knowing before you unclip the lead:

• Keep your dog under effective voice or hand control at all times, even off-leash
• Carry a lead with you the whole time, even in the off-leash zone
• Stay at least 20 metres from playgrounds, fitness equipment and permanent BBQ or picnic areas
• The eastern side of the reserve, where the playground and oval sit, is leash-only
• Pick up and bin waste
• Dogs need a current registration tag

The terrain. The main off-leash slope is open grass and unfenced, so it suits dogs with solid recall more than nervous escape artists. It's exposed on the hilltop, so expect wind and a real chill outside the warmer months.

What's there. Free on-site parking. Public toilets and water taps exist, but they're over on the eastern (leash-only) side near the oval and playground, so bring your own water bottle or bowl for the off-leash slope itself.

Getting there. It's a Mt Dandenong Tourist Road drive from most directions; public transport is thin, with Lilydale or Belgrave the nearest train stations and PTV route 688 running along the tourist road if you'd rather not drive.

Nearby with the dogs. Kalorama Cafe is close by with outdoor seating, and there are dog-friendly options further along in Olinda and Kallista if you're making a day of the Dandenongs.

Go on a weekday morning if you want the view to yourself; weekends and sunny days bring locals and tourists up for the scenery. Pack a jacket even in shoulder season, the hilltop wind cuts through.

Sources

• Dog 'Off-Leash' Areas - Yarra Ranges Council · yarraranges.vic.gov.au
• Exercising your dog - Yarra Ranges Council · yarraranges.vic.gov.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.