Main Yarra Trail: Finns Reserve to Warrandyte

The Main Yarra Trail from Finns Reserve to Warrandyte runs 18km out and back along the Yarra River, or Birrarung, between Templestowe Lower and the Warrandyte township. AllTrails grades it easy and allows about four hours for the full return, but almost nobody walks the whole thing in one go, and the trail rewards a well-chosen section far more than a full slog.

The walk. Long, flat and mostly sealed, a shared-use path threading through riparian woodland and native bushland with open river views for much of the route. It is shared with cyclists, so a dog that walks predictably beside you will have a better time than one that weaves.

The rules. Manningham City Council requires dogs on lead along the shared trail, partly to protect local fauna. Finns Reserve has its own off-leash area, kept away from the playground and the barbecues, but dogs are not permitted inside the fenced Wombat Bend Playspace at any time. At the Warrandyte end there is a 260 metre stretch between 183 Yarra Street and the Warrandyte Bridge where dogs must be on lead. Full details are on the Manningham Council page for Finns Reserve.

Water and hazards. There are drinking fountains at Finns Reserve, along with toilets, barbecues and shaded picnic tables. The trail floods after heavy rain, particularly close to the banks, so check conditions before a wet-season walk and expect slippery going near the water.

Getting there. The main car park is off Duncan Road, Templestowe Lower, with more parking off Templestowe Road. By bus, the 905 SmartBus plus routes 279, 281 and 309 stop near Finns Reserve. You can also join the trail at Westerfolds Park off Fitzsimons Lane, or at Warrandyte River Reserve.

Nearby with the dogs. Break the route up by starting at Candlebark Park instead, or walk Westerfolds Park, where kangaroos are resident and leads are compulsory. At the far end, the Warrandyte Yarra River Water Frontage continues the river theme, and Warrandyte River Reserve has an off-leash area. George's Milkbar is the Warrandyte coffee stop.

When to go. Early mornings and weekdays, because weekend mornings bring heavy cyclist and pedestrian traffic. Good for big runners who want distance without hills, rather than anyone after off-lead time.

Sources

• Finns Reserve - Manningham City Council · manningham.vic.gov.au
• Changes to dog lead areas - Manningham City Council · manningham.vic.gov.au
• Main Yarra Trail: Finns Reserve to Warrandyte - AllTrails · alltrails.com

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