The lookout rock

The Lookout Rock walk sits inside the R.J. Hamer Arboretum on Chalet Road, Olinda, and pays off a short uphill loop with panoramic views over the Yarra Valley, Silvan Reservoir and the ranges beyond. Dogs are welcome on-leash in the arboretum, which makes it a good views-with-the-dog option in an area where the national park next door is off-limits.

The walk. A loop of roughly 2.8 to 3km on dirt and gravel management roads, with some steep pinches. The reward is the lookout itself and the open valley views, best on a clear day or in autumn for the colour.

Leash status. Dogs must be on-leash at all times in the arboretum. Do not cross from the arboretum into the surrounding Dandenong Ranges National Park, where dogs are banned, so stay on the marked tracks.

Water and hazards. No water taps on the route, so bring water for you and the dog. There are no bins on the trail either, so carry all waste back to the car park. The track gets muddy after rain.

Getting there. Free parking at the Woolrich Lookout car park on Chalet Road, which also has barbecues, picnic tables and public toilets. The site is hard to reach by public transport, so driving is the realistic option.

When to go. Early mornings before 9am or weekdays are quietest. Weekends and sunny afternoons between 11am and 3pm are busiest, and the Woolrich car park fills fast, so arrive early.

Sources

• RJ Hamer Arboretum - Parks Victoria · parks.vic.gov.au
• Lookout Rock - hikes and trails · alltrails.com
• R.J. Hamer Arboretum & Lookout · explorethedandenongs.com.au
• RJ Hamer Arboretum (Olinda) · melbourneplaygrounds.com.au

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