Dandenong Creek Trail

The Dandenong Creek Trail is one of Melbourne's big regional paths, running more than 40 kilometres from Kilsyth South to Carrum. Around Dandenong North it gives you wetlands, bush corridors and birdlife on a mostly on-lead route.

Leads and the off-lead area

Keep dogs on a lead on the shared path and most reserve sections, especially near playgrounds, sports grounds and conservation zones.

Where the trail passes through a council reserve with a designated off-lead area, that council's rules apply. The City of Greater Dandenong lists its off-lead parks, so check before you unclip.

The walk

The surface changes with the section, from sealed asphalt to packed gravel and dirt. Melbourne Water looks after the creek corridor, with several councils maintaining their own stretches.

You can pick any length you like, since there is no need to walk the full trail.

Pair it with

The Tirhatuan Park Fenced Dog Park is nearby for off-lead time, and Top Seeds Coffee is an easy coffee stop.

When to go

Weekday mornings are quieter on this popular cycling route. The sealed sections suit older dogs, while the gravel stretches can be muddy after rain.