Merri Creek Track via Coburg Lake Loop

This 8.9 km loop links Coburg Lake Reserve with the Merri Creek Track, and it is flat, sealed for most of its length and easy to shorten at either end. For a walk this long inside Melbourne's inner north, it stays surprisingly green.

The walk. Around two to two and a half hours for the full 8.9 km, rated easy. The surface is mostly sealed shared path with gravel sections closer to the creek, and there is no real climbing. Mature river red gums line the water and the lake sits at the northern end of the loop. Because it is a loop hung off a linear creek trail, you can cut it short at several road crossings and still get a satisfying walk.

The rules. Merri-bek City Council manages both the reserve and the creek trail, and dogs are welcome on lead throughout. Council also requires dogs to stay at least 15 metres from playgrounds, and there are several around the lake, so keep that in mind at the northern end where the picnic areas cluster.

Water. There are taps and drinking fountains at the lake reserve. The creek itself runs low and murky in stretches and is not somewhere to encourage a swim, particularly after rain when urban runoff comes through.

Hazards. The Merri Creek path is a commuter cycling route and the bikes move quickly, especially at either end of the working day. Snakes turn up along the banks in warm weather. Sections near the water get slippery after heavy rain.

Getting there. Batman Station on the Upfield line is within walking distance, and tram 19 down Sydney Road puts you close. Driving, there is free parking near the lake off Gaffney Street, with two-hour limits on some surrounding streets.

Nearby with the dogs. Egan Reserve is the nearest off-lead area with creek access. Heading south, the creek trail continues toward Abrahams Reserve in Northcote if you want a longer day. BrewDog Pentridge has a large dog-friendly beer garden nearby, and The Nicholson Coffee House is the local coffee stop.

When to go. Weekday mornings before about 7:30, ahead of the cyclists and the after-work crowd. Good for big runners who want distance on flat ground.

Sources

• Coburg Lake Reserve - Merri-bek City Council · www.merri-bek.vic.gov.au
• Park amenities and equipment - Merri-bek City Council · www.merri-bek.vic.gov.au
• Merri Creek Track via Coburg Lake Loop - AllTrails · www.alltrails.com

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