Lilydale Lake via Hull Road Wetlands

Lilydale Lake sits at 435 Swansea Road, Lilydale, about 40km east of Melbourne, open 24 hours and free to enter. The deciding fact is that it is on lead nearly everywhere, with two designated off-leash areas as the exception, and one fenced zone dogs cannot enter at all.

The walk. The lake circuit is a flat gravel loop of 2.5 to 3km, easy underfoot and fine for any fitness level. Add the Hull Road Wetlands paths and the outing stretches to around 6km, still graded easy, about an hour and a half to two hours. There are bird hides along the way and clear views to the Dandenong Ranges.

The rules. Yarra Ranges Council manages the park and keeps dogs on lead on all paths around the lake, in the picnic areas, near the playground and throughout the Hull Road Wetlands. Dogs are not allowed inside the fenced Island Sanctuaries, which exist to protect local wildlife. Bags are provided but cleaning up is still on you. The council park page marks the off-leash boundaries.

Water. The good news is the two off-leash areas, North West and East, both open around the clock and both stocked with water stations and dog bags. Dogs may also swim in the designated creek areas. The lake itself is not recommended for a human swim.

Hazards. There is little shade around the main path, so carry water on hot days. The ground turns muddy after heavy rain, and the path is shared with cyclists, so keep the lead short through the busy stretches near the car park and playground.

Getting there. The main car park off Swansea Road is free and large, but it fills fast on sunny weekends. Bellbird Park on Swansea Road and the Lakeview Drive entrance are the overflow options. By train, take the Lilydale line to Lilydale Station and walk 1.5km via Main Street and Swansea Road, about 15 to 20 minutes. There are toilets, barbecues, picnic shelters and drinking fountains on site.

Nearby with the dogs. The East and North West off-leash areas are both here, with Patterson Road a third option. For more distance, the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail starts nearby, and CJ Mobile Cafe often works out of the main car park.

When to go. Midweek, early mornings, or Sunday evenings. Weekend sun brings crowds and full car parks. Good for seniors, and for nervous swimmers who want flat ground and a controlled first paddle.

Sources

• Lillydale Lake - Yarra Ranges Council · yarraranges.vic.gov.au
• Lilydale Lake via Hull Road Wetlands - AllTrails · alltrails.com

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