Redleap Recreation Reserve

Redleap Recreation Reserve in Mill Park gives you both kinds of dog walk in one place: an on-lead loop around Peter Hopper Lake and a fenced off-lead area just west of the water. The City of Whittlesea runs it, and it covers about 6.2 hectares.

Leads and the off-lead area

Dogs can run free inside the fenced off-lead area, which has a separate enclosure for small dogs. Everywhere else in the reserve, including the lake paths, dogs must be on lead.

The walk

Concrete paths and paved walking and bike tracks loop around the deep lake, with waterbirds on the water and big old gums along the banks. Shade depends on which side of the lake you are on.

There are water stations for dogs inside the off-lead area and bins throughout the reserve.

Getting started

The northern car park off Redleap Avenue is the easiest way in, with a footbridge over the dry creek bed straight to the dog park.

Pepsi: Do the lake loop on lead first, then finish with a run and a drink in the fenced area.

Pair it with

J.C. Donath Reserve Dog Off Leash Area in Reservoir is another off-lead option, and All Heart Cafe is on our dog-friendly list.

When to go

Cooler mornings suit the exposed side of the lake. Small dogs do well here thanks to their own enclosure.