Mullum Mullum Trail

The Mullum Mullum Trail is an 8.2km shared-use path running through shady bushland along Mullum Mullum Creek in Mitcham, in Melbourne's east. For dog walkers the key fact up front: the trail itself is on-lead for its whole length, with off-lead time limited to the signed ovals at Mullum Mullum Reserve.

The walk

It is a moderate, mostly one-way trail of paved and gravel surface that takes around 1.5 to 2 hours end to end, or plan a return trip and cut it short to suit the dog. Expect creek crossings, footbridges and dense riparian vegetation that keeps the path cool even on warm days, with the bushland feel persisting despite the Eastlink corridor running close by in sections.

Leash status

On lead is the default along the trail. The upper and lower ovals at Mullum Mullum Reserve are signed off-leash zones where dogs can run under effective control, but dogs are prohibited within 15 metres of playgrounds and BBQs and are not permitted at all inside Currawong Bush Park, which borders parts of the reserve. Check the signs before unclipping near the ovals, because the Currawong boundary is not always obvious from the path.

Water

There is a water fountain with a dog bowl at the reserve, and the creek itself offers a paddle where access allows. Check the water is moving before letting your dog in.

Pepsi: the creek crossings are the best part of a hot-day walk, but the lower path is the section that floods. If it has rained hard, start your walk higher up and skip the creek line until it dries out.

Watch-outs

Shared path etiquette matters here: cyclists use the trail heavily, so keep the lead short and your dog on the left when bikes pass. The lower paths near the creek can flood after heavy rain. Clean up as you go, as the creek's health depends on it.

Getting there

Main parking is at Mullum Mullum Reserve off Mullum Mullum Road. Mitcham station on the Lilydale and Belgrave lines is a 20 to 25 minute walk away, and buses 271, 670 and 901 stop along Maroondah Highway. Toilets are at the sporting pavilion, with benches, picnic tables and bins along the route.

More walks nearby

For a dedicated off-lead session, Simpson Park Dog Off Leash Area is the local pick, and Dark Horse on the Brit does sheltered outdoor seating for the post-walk coffee.

When to go

Dry weekday mornings are the best window, combining shade with a lower flood risk. The flat, shaded walking suits older dogs and steady walkers alike.

More options are on the Victoria dog walks guide and the Mitcham destination page.