Maribyrnong River loop

The Maribyrnong River loop at Aberfeldie is a 4.2 km circuit of sealed path along both banks, linked by footbridges. Dogs walk the path itself on lead, but two large off lead reserves sit directly on the loop, and that is what makes it a dog walk rather than just a nice walk.

The walk. AllTrails measures it at 4.2 km, rates it easy and gives it about 50 minutes. It is flat, sealed and shared with bikes, and the bridges mean you can cut it into a shorter figure of eight. Downstream it runs on into the Maribyrnong River Trail at Burndap Park if you want more distance.

The rules. Moonee Valley and Maribyrnong councils manage the two banks between them. Dogs are on lead on the shared river path for the whole loop, and on lead near the playgrounds. The signposted off lead ground sits just off the loop: Aberfeldie Park on one side and Chifley Drive Reserve across the Afton Street pedestrian bridge. Read the signs at the reserve boundary, because the rule changes at the fence line and not at the river.

Water. There are drinking fountains with dog bowls along the circuit. The Maribyrnong is tidal and steep banked along most of this stretch, so it is not a swimming river here.

Getting there. The 57 tram runs to stop 41 at Maribyrnong Park, which puts you straight on the loop. Driving, there is free street parking along The Boulevard and more near the Afton Street bridge. Public toilets are at Maribyrnong Park and Riverside Park, with barbecues at Riverside Park and Coulson Gardens.

Nearby with the dogs. Calmer Cafe is the closest coffee to the loop and Middle Child is a short drive. StayCentral Moonee Ponds Penthouse takes dogs if you are staying over.

When to go. Mid morning on a weekday, or late afternoon once the commuter rush clears. Saturday morning is the busiest hour of the week. Good for nervous dogs if you time it right and stay off the peak.

Sources

• Dogs Off-Lead Parks and Reserves - Maribyrnong City Council · www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
• Maribyrnong River Loop, Aberfeldie - Walking Maps · walkingmaps.com.au
• Maribyrnong River loop - AllTrails · www.alltrails.com

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