Milkwort, Panorama, Hakea Ridge and Sword Sedge Track Loop

The Milkwort, Panorama, Hakea Ridge and Sword Sedge Track Loop is a 7.2 kilometre circuit through The Pines Flora and Fauna Reserve in Frankston North, roughly 40km southeast of Melbourne. This is remnant sand heathland on the edge of suburbia, with sandy tracks, a hill climb and lookout views, and it is strictly a lead walk: the reserve is a wildlife sanctuary and dogs must be on lead for the entire loop.

Leash status

Parks Victoria requires dogs on leash at all times within the reserve, and on the designated tracks only. It's worth knowing your map here, because the neighbouring Frankston Nature Conservation Reserve bans dogs entirely, and it's easy to cross between the two green patches on foot. Pick up after your dog and carry the bag out; there are no bins on the trail. Stay off the heathland itself, the vegetation is the point of the reserve.

The walk

Allow around two hours for the full loop at a dog's pace. The grade stays easy: wide, mostly flat sandy tracks with some firmer gravel sections and one steady climb to the high ground. The Panorama Track Lookout partway round is the payoff, with views that reach Port Phillip Bay and, on a clear day, the Melbourne skyline. The tracks are wide enough to pass other walkers and their dogs comfortably.

Max: seven kilometres of sniffing on a lead, then the lookout says it was worth the manners.

Water and terrain

There is no drinking water anywhere in the reserve, so carry enough for both of you, especially over the full distance in warm weather. Underfoot is mostly sand and gravel, but low-lying sections turn muddy after rain. Shade is patchy, another reason the cooler months suit this loop best.

Hazards

Tiger snakes and copperheads are active through the reserve in the warmer months, and Parks Victoria says so plainly. Keep your dog on the sandy path and leashed the whole way, and skip the walk on very hot days when snakes are most mobile. Check for Total Fire Ban conditions before setting out in summer.

Getting there and parking

The main access is off Ballarto Road, with a free car park and picnic shelter at the entrance. There are no public toilets or water on site, so plan ahead. It's a car trip, effectively: no practical public transport reaches the trailhead.

While you're out there

A lead-only loop calls for an off-lead finish, and Frankston North has you covered: Centenary Park Dog Off Leash Area has wide open grass for a proper sprint, Telopea Reserve Fenced Dog Park is the secure option, and Pat Rollo Reserve Dog Off Leash Area splits the difference. The Laughing Lark Cafe in Frankston is an easy coffee stop on the drive home.

Find more dog friendly trails across Victoria or see what else is on offer in Frankston North.