The Pines Flora and Fauna Reserve

The Pines Flora and Fauna Reserve keeps a patch of coastal heath, sand dunes and bushland alive between Frankston North and Carrum Downs. Dogs are welcome on the tracks, on a lead at all times.

Lead rules

Parks Victoria manages the reserve and requires dogs on lead throughout, to protect the wildlife and plants. Echidnas and plenty of birds live here.

The walk

A web of wide, unsealed gravel and sand tracks runs through the reserve, with a sealed shared section along the Peninsula Link Trail. The ground ranges from flat strolls to gentle hills, with native wildflowers along the way.

The bush and heath give shade along most tracks. There is no dependable water, so carry enough for the dog, and bins are only at the entries and picnic areas.

Getting started

The main entrance and parking bays are on Ballarto Road.

Make a day of it

For off-lead time, try Sandfield Reserve Fenced Dog Park or Banyan Reserve Dog Off Leash Area.

Wide tracks and clear sightlines make it easy to manage a dog on lead, and the hillier sections give fit dogs a proper workout.