Maribyrnong River Trail and Burndap Park

The Maribyrnong River Trail is a sealed riverside path in Melbourne's inner west, running through Footscray and Maribyrnong and linking Footscray Park to Burndap Park and Burndap Lake. Dogs must stay on lead for the whole route, though a designated off-lead area sits nearby in Footscray Park if your dog needs to run free.

The walk. This is a 6.1 km loop graded easy at 1 of 5, taking about 1 to 1.5 hours. The path is sealed, flat and wide, suiting walkers, runners, cyclists, prams and wheelchairs, with smaller bushy side trails branching off for those who want a change of surface. Along the way you get river views, manicured gardens, wetlands and patches of natural bushland.

The rules. Under Maribyrnong City Council, dogs must be on lead on the main trail, in Burndap Park, and within 5 metres of the path, and the lead itself must be no longer than three metres. Off-lead dogs are not permitted within 30 metres of any playground, and under no circumstances may dogs enter sporting grounds while booked training or matches are taking place. Footscray Park is one of the council's designated off-lead areas, with the off-lead ground on the western side of the Thomson Water Garden, the Victoria University side; check the council map before you unclip. You must pick up after your dog, and failing to do so can bring an on-the-spot fine. The council provides free dog litter bags in selected parks.

Water. The trail follows the river for its full length, but the lower grass areas near the water turn very boggy and muddy after rain. Pack a towel if your dog likes to get in among it.

Getting there. There is free parking near Burndap Park on Cumberland Drive, plus metered and free areas around Footscray Park. By train, take the Sunbury line to Footscray Station and walk from there. Bus routes 409 and 472 stop on Farnsworth Avenue near the river bridge, and tram 82 stops at Geelong Road and Droop Street. Burndap Park has barbecues, seating, picnic tables, shelters and a playground, and public drinking water is available. Public toilets are limited, so you may need to walk to nearby Pipemakers Park.

Nearby with the dogs. For off-lead time, try the Footscray Park Dog Off Leash Area or the Thompson Reserve Dog Off Leash Area. If you want a fully fenced option, head to the Martin Reserve Fenced Dog Park in West Footscray. Afterwards, dogs are welcome at Moon Dog Wild West for a drink.

When to go. The trail is busiest on weekends and on weekdays around 5pm to 6pm, and usually quiet before 8am. Weekday mornings suit a quiet stroll, while sunny weekend afternoons bring more atmosphere and company. Good for seniors.

Sources

• Dogs off-lead parks and reserves, Maribyrnong City Council · maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
• Footscray Park, Maribyrnong City Council · maribyrnong.vic.gov.au

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