Mount Evelyn Aqueduct Trail

Old concrete water channels from the early 1900s still run beside the Mount Evelyn Aqueduct Trail, winding through dry forest on the edge of town. The best part for dogs is a 410-metre off-lead stretch heading east from West Hill Drive.

Leads and the off-lead area

Yarra Ranges Council manages the trail. Dogs can be off lead on the signed section east of West Hill Drive, and must be back on lead for the rest of the trail.

The walk

The surface changes as you go, from wide gravel path to dirt bush track and a few rougher single-file sections. Along the way you pass the remains of the aqueduct channels and plenty of trees.

Tall trees give some shade, but there is no water or bins on the off-lead stretch. Bring a bottle, a bowl and bags.

Parking is on the local streets near the West Hill Drive entry, as there is little formal parking at the trail.

Max: The off-lead stretch is short and runs through a residential area, so keep recall sharp and clip on at the signs.

Pair it with

The Mount Evelyn Recreation Reserve Walking Track is another local option, and Paperbark Cafe suits a coffee afterwards.

The gravel and bush track suits active dogs that enjoy a sniff. Older dogs will manage the wider gravel sections more easily than the rough single-file bits.