From 1000 Steps to lake loops: The top walks in Melbourne's eastern suburbs

Trails are ideal for walking the dog, spilling the tea with a best friend while sneaking in some exercise, or enjoying the summer weather out and about in nature.

We have compiled our best walking trails and tracks in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

Yarran Dheran Nature Reserve, Mitcham

Just off the Eastlink Trail in Mitcham is the Yarran Dheran Nature Reserve, a former quarry site and rubbish tip that was transformed in the 1970s and 80s, and is now one of the main biodiversity hotspots in Melbourne’s east.  

Walking tracks range from a 10-minute loop around the wetlands to a 60-minute loop walk to Schwerkolt Cottage, and various abilities are catered for.

Enter at the end of Ashburton Drive in Mitcham.

Lillydale Lake, Lilydale

The 2.5km Lillydale Lake loop has been open for 35 years and is a key walking circuit in Melbourne’s outer eastern suburbs.

There are great views of the lake from a variety of perspectives and is suited to dog walkers, with an off-leash section towards the far side of the lake.  

Amenities include playgrounds and there is ample car parking.

Enter at 435 Swansea Road in Lilydale.

Candlebark Walk, Croydon

Just off from Yarra Road in Croydon, the Candlebark Walk is a fine little circuit loop. There is plenty of seating around the walk, allowing you to take in the views of the wetlands and the many ducks that inhabit the area.  

With the majority of the track reasonably flat and paved with bitumen, it is ideal for those walking with prams. 

Doggy bags are available around the track, so no excuses.

Enter at 57 Croydon Hills Drive in Croydon Hills.

Blackburn Lake Sanctuary, Blackburn

Blackburn Lake Sanctuary provides tranquil relief in a built-up area. 

The site - used by the Victorian Adult Deaf Society in the early 1900s before being sold to the former Nunawading Council - has been a staple for Blackburn residents for generations. 

The two main walks at the Sanctuary are about 1km and 1.7km and are suited to those looking to get a quick walk in.

And with a playground and BBQ facilities at the Central Road end, it is a top location for a picnic with the family after a walk around the lake.

Enter at 95 Central Road in Blackburn.

Bucks Walking Trail, Donvale

Taking a slight detour off the Mullum Mullum track in Donvale, the Bucks Walking Trail is an alternative way of walking by the Mullum Mullum Creek.

Next to the right of the bridge past Tindals Road, it is a far narrower and more uneven track, but offers clearer views of the creek compared to the paved Mullum Mullum track.

Enter via the Mullum Mullum Trail at 282 Reynolds Road in Donvale.

1000 Steps Trail, Ferntree Gully

At the foot of the Mount Dandenong Ranges, the 1000 Steps Trail is a track for those looking for a more challenging walk.

Also known as the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk, this 1.8km trail is largely uphill, with a mix of concrete and gravel paths providing some amazing views of the ranges, but walk with caution.

There are rest stops throughout the trail to allow you to catch a breath and enjoy the scenic views.

Once you have reached the top and made the trek down through the Lyrebird Track to the car park, the 1000 Steps Café offers a well-deserved treat.

Enter off Mount Dandenong Tourist Road just after the Burwood Highway turnoff.