Don Reserve Walking Tracks

The walking tracks through Don Reserve follow the tidal Don River on the edge of Devonport, and dogs are welcome as long as they stay on a lead. If yours needs a proper run, Devonport City Council has a fully fenced dog exercise park within the reserve at 260 Steele Street.

The walk

The tracks wind through bushland of native black gum and swamp paperbark, with the river alongside for much of the way. Some sections are paved, others unsealed, with a soft sawdust surface in places.

Heritage trains from the neighbouring Don River Railway run past now and then. A dog that startles at loud noises will be happier on a short lead when one goes by.

Leads and the fenced park

On the tracks themselves, the council rule is on lead at all times. Save the off-lead play for the fenced exercise park on Steele Street, where your dog can run freely without heading for the riverbank.

Max: The trains are the surprise here. Keep the lead short near the railway until you know how your dog reacts.

Make a day of it

For coffee afterwards, Leaping Goat Coffee in Quoiba and Playfish in Devonport are both on our dog-friendly list.

When to go

Bring water for the dog. The mix of sealed path and soft track suits most dogs, and the quiet bush sections make it a calm walk for dogs still learning their lead manners.