Explore Sherbrooke Falls: A Must-Do Hike in Melbourne
When visiting Melbourne in Australia, I highly recommend taking a drive up into the Dandenong Ranges. You can hike there and, afterward, indulge yourself by eating huge scones smothered in jam and cream. One great hike is the Sherbrooke falls loop. This hike that provides stunning scenery and a small waterfall. This trail is one of the most popular bushwalks in Melbourne.
Overview of Sherbrooke Falls Hike
- Location: Dandenong Ranges, Melbourne
- Grade: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: Approximately 2.5 kilometers (return)
- Time: 1-2 hours
- Start: O’Donohue Picnic Ground
- End: O’Donohue Picnic Ground
- Fees: None
Getting There from Melbourne
Getting to the Sherbrooke Picnic Ground from Melbourne is a easy. Just hop on the Monash Freeway (M1) and follow the signs toward the Dandenong Ranges. The drive takes around an hour and offers a scenic escape from the city. Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty of parking, picnic facilities, and access to the beautiful trails leading to the falls. If just visiting Belgrave area you can also catch a train to Belgrave Station. this hike would be too far but you can hike near there also.
The Hike
I started my hike mid-morning. I had just completed another hike with a friend from pickleball in the area. I felt like having another adventure. I got out of the car. I felt the crisp air on my face as I set off from the picnic ground. The trail starts by falling down into a beautiful fern lined gully. It is so lush, and the area always seems to be damp. But on this day, it was a more challenging walk. The recent rains had turned the first km of the path into a muddy obstacle course. I laughed as I tried to keep my boots from getting soaked with mud. I hopped from tree bark to tree bark that people before me had placed on the track.
Once I reached the bottom of the gully, I turned a corner, and I was surrounded by huge trees. They were absolutely massive, towering high above me. It was quite windy so I stopped to watch them sway in the wind for a while. Such a peaceful feeling.
Walking further along a soon reached Sherbrooke Falls, I found a peaceful spot to rest. The waterfall was beautiful but definitely not a large towering waterfall . Even still it was a lovely sight as I enjoyed watching the water as it gently flowed over the rocks.
The hike continued through a gully and up and down hills with more huge trees and beautiful ferns. There was a really cool bridge that had the entire hand rail completely covered in moss. Walking on this trail is very peaceful. The smell is nice, coming from the damp soil and tall eucalyptus trees. At the end of the hike, you leave the gully. The path follows alongside the road for a while. It then takes you back to the carpark. You can sit and enjoy a nice picnic or snack there. Bring a thermos if you want hot coffee.
Hike Summary
The trail is definitely worthwhile. It is incredibly picturesque and showcases the lush landscape of the Sherbrooke Forest. The forest is quite expansive and offers many access points. Like I mentioned, the Sherbrooke Falls themselves are a bit of a letdown for waterfall lovers. Still, the true highlight of this walk lies in the journey. The vibrant ferns, towering trees, and the feeling of isolation in this serene environment make it a truly immersive experience.
A Side Trip to Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden
After enjoying the hike, you want to extend your day outdoors. Consider visiting the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens. They are located across the road from the car park.
Join my Facebook Group Here. In this real I walk you through the hike. Enjoy!
Treasure you hiking memories with The Hikers Journal
