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Black Spur Drive Victoria Australia

4.8
·510 reviews·Fernshaw, Australia

A magical 30km drive through Victoria's ancient rainforest, famed for its towering trees and ethereal misty atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter mornings

Magical misty atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Black Spur Drive - Image 1

Black Spur Drive Victoria Australia

Best Time

Winter mornings

Magical misty atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magical 30km drive through Victoria's ancient rainforest, famed for its towering trees and ethereal misty atmosphere.

4.8
(510 reviews)

"Truly the most amazing road I have ever driven; my pictures don't do it justice."

Vertical photo
TIP

Download Offline Maps

Phone signal is unreliable here. Download maps beforehand to navigate easily. :iphone:

Drive Slowly & Safely

Tight corners and limited visibility. Adhere to speed limits and be aware of the road. :oncoming_automobile:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Towering Rainforest Canopy

Towering Rainforest Canopy

Throughout the drive

Immerse yourself in a world of giant mountain ash trees and lush ferns, creating an enchanting, green tunnel.

Misty Winter Magic

Misty Winter Magic

Throughout the drive

Experience an ethereal, storybook-like atmosphere with fog weaving through the ancient trees.

Winding Scenic Road

Winding Scenic Road

Maroondah Highway

A captivating 30km journey that twists and turns through breathtaking natural beauty.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Mist

The Black Spur Drive is renowned for its magical misty atmosphere, especially in winter. Plan for a slow, scenic journey through towering trees and lush rainforest. Phone signal is unreliable, so download offline maps before you go.

Photo Stops & Safety

While incredibly beautiful, designated photo spots are scarce. Be cautious of narrow roads and sharp turns. Never stop on the road itself; use wider, safe pull-offs and be mindful of other drivers.

Best Times

When
Winter mornings
Why
Magical misty atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Anytime, rain or shine
Why
Lush and calming
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

There’s nothing like a misty winter drive through the Black Spur - it’s pure magic. Towering mountain ash trees, winding roads wrapped in fog, and that feeling like you’ve just stepped into a storybook. This stretch between Healesville and Marysville is one of the most scenic in Victoria, especially on a cool winter morning. We love cruising through with the heater on, hot drinks in hand, and stop...
@melbournewithsiri
31.4K likes • 351K views

Download Offline Maps

Phone signal is unreliable here. Download maps beforehand to navigate easily. :iphone:

Drive Slowly & Safely

Tight corners and limited visibility. Adhere to speed limits and be aware of the road. :oncoming_automobile:

📍Black Spur Drive, Victoria, Australia @yarravalleydandenongranges #visitvictoria #melbourne #melbournelife #travelmelbourne #melbourneiloveyou #blackspurdrive #australia
fernfernsasi
3.1K likes • 105.4K views
The Black Spur is a stunning drive that weaves through the lush forest landscapes of the Yarra Ranges. @visityarravalley @yarravalleydandenongranges @visitmelbourne @visitvictoria @ford.ranger.club.australia @ford @fordrangeraustralia @australia #yarravalley #melbourne #australia #yarraranges #victoria #visitvictoria #dandenongranges #abcmyphoto #visityarravalley #nature #lilydale #supportlocal...
jade.a.hayes
378 likes • 15.1K views

Respect Photo Stops

Use designated safe pull-offs. Never stop on the road itself for photos. :camera:

Embrace the Fog

Misty conditions add to the magic, especially in winter. Enjoy the unique atmosphere. :cloud:

Black Spur Drive is a scenic road located in the state of Victoria in Australia. It runs through the Yarra Ranges National Park and offers stunning views of the surrounding forests and mountains. Tag someone who wants to travel to #australia Go to Indolo.in to get the best deals in travel anywhere in the world. #blackspur #victoriaaustralia #yarraranges #dandenongranges #australia #victoria #i...
indolo.world
2K likes • 98.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Download Offline Maps

Phone signal is unreliable here. Download maps beforehand to navigate easily. :iphone:

Drive Slowly & Safely

Tight corners and limited visibility. Adhere to speed limits and be aware of the road. :oncoming_automobile:

Respect Photo Stops

Use designated safe pull-offs. Never stop on the road itself for photos. :camera:

Embrace the Fog

Misty conditions add to the magic, especially in winter. Enjoy the unique atmosphere. :cloud:

Pack for Nature

Great for tree lovers and hikers. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(510 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Black Spur Drive for its breathtaking natural beauty, describing it as an unforgettable, almost magical experience, especially in misty conditions. The towering rainforest and winding roads create a serene and captivating journey. However, some note the scarcity of safe stopping points for photos and the lack of phone signal.

"The drive was very pleasant. This road is surrounded by thick forest. You don’t get phone signals though.
Very few visitors were there. The place is very peaceful."

Fatima

"No matter the weather — rain, shine, or mist — driving through this lush rainforest is an unforgettable experience. The winding roads, the towering green canopy, and the soothing sound of nature create a journey that’s as calming as it is breathtaking."

Daniel Kim

"I nearly cried when driving this road it was so beautiful.
Truly the most amazing road i have ever driven. My pictures don't do it justice as there are very few spots to stop for a small truck like i was driving.
If you love trees and hiking like i do you won't be disappointed.
You could not wipe the smile off my face all day.
I give it 10 stars here is my extra five 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟"

Renny Young

What People Like

Stunning rainforest scenery
Magical misty atmosphere
Peaceful and calming drive

What People Dislike

Few safe photo stops
No phone signal

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Black Spur Drive is located on the Maroondah Highway, between Healesville and Narbethong. From Melbourne, you can drive approximately 1.5 hours northeast. Many visitors combine this drive with a trip to Healesville Sanctuary or the Yarra Valley. :car:

Public transport options are limited for directly accessing and experiencing the full drive. It's best enjoyed with a private vehicle. Consider a guided tour if you don't have a car. :bus:

The drive connects Healesville to Narbethong, with Marysville also being a popular destination nearby. Healesville offers amenities and is a common starting point. :town_name:

While cycling is possible, the winding roads and traffic require extreme caution. Walking is best done on designated trails in nearby national parks rather than along the highway itself. :cyclist:

Black Spur Drive is a section of the Maroondah Highway. You can enter it from either the Healesville end or the Narbethong end. There are no formal gates or entry points. :road:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Black Spur Drive is a public road and is free to access. There are no admission fees. :ticket:

As a public road, Black Spur Drive is open 24/7. However, driving in fog or at night can be challenging, so daylight hours are generally recommended. :clock:

The main restriction is to drive safely and responsibly. Be aware of wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk. During extreme weather, sections of the road might be temporarily closed. :warning:

Booking isn't necessary as it's a public road. However, planning your visit during weekdays or outside of peak holiday periods can mean fewer crowds. :calendar:

You can stop at designated safe pull-off areas. Avoid stopping on the road itself due to sharp turns and traffic. Respect the environment and do not block access. :stop_sign:

📸 📸 Photography & Views

Designated pull-off areas offer safe opportunities. Look for wider sections of the road shoulder. Be patient, as dedicated viewpoints are limited. :camera:

Absolutely! Fog creates a magical, ethereal atmosphere that is highly photogenic. Embrace the mist for unique shots. :fog:

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the towering trees. A drone can offer stunning aerial perspectives, but always fly responsibly and check regulations. :drone:

Yes, the Yarra Ranges National Park surrounding the drive offers numerous hiking trails that provide elevated views and deeper immersion in the forest. :hiking_boot:

Drone usage is permitted in many areas, but always check current regulations for Yarra Ranges National Park and ensure you fly safely and respectfully, avoiding private property and sensitive wildlife areas. :camerawithflash:

🎫 🌲 Nature & Wildlife

You'll be surrounded by magnificent Mountain Ash trees, some of the tallest flowering plants in the world, along with lush ferns and other temperate rainforest flora. :evergreen_tree:

Keep an eye out for native birds, wallabies, and other small marsupials. Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk. :kangaroo:

Yes, the drive passes through the Yarra Ranges National Park, which has many walking and hiking trails. Some trailheads are accessible directly from the highway. :forest_tree:

It's a paradise for nature photographers! The towering trees, dense foliage, and potential for mist create dramatic and beautiful scenes. :camerawithflash:

Each season offers unique beauty. Winter brings mist and a moody atmosphere, while spring and summer are vibrant with greenery. Autumn provides beautiful foliage colors. :seedling:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Black Spur Drive offers a unique adventure for families, immersing children in a magical forest setting. The towering trees and lush ferns can feel like a real-life enchanted forest. While the drive itself is captivating, consider breaking it up with short, easy walks on accessible trails within the Yarra Ranges National Park. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited along the route. Ensure children are safely secured in car seats and entertained during the drive, as there are few places to stop for extended breaks. TikTokInstagram

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

For those who love scenic drives, Black Spur is a must-do. Its reputation as one of Australia's most beautiful roads is well-earned. The winding tarmac, framed by ancient rainforest, provides a thrilling yet serene driving experience. Renting a car that handles well on winding roads is recommended. Take your time, enjoy the changing light and atmosphere, and consider combining it with other attractions in the Yarra Valley or nearby towns like Marysville for a full day trip. Instagram+1

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

Black Spur Drive is a dream location for photographers. The dramatic scale of the trees, the interplay of light and shadow, and the ethereal mist create stunning visual opportunities. Instagram+1 Wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing the grandeur of the forest. Be prepared for challenging lighting conditions and the potential for fog, which can add a unique mood to your shots. Remember to scout safe locations for photography and always prioritize safety over the perfect shot. Drones can offer incredible aerial perspectives, but always fly responsibly and adhere to park regulations. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchanting Atmosphere of Black Spur Drive

Black Spur Drive is more than just a road; it's an immersive experience. The towering Mountain Ash trees create a natural cathedral, with their immense height and dense canopy filtering sunlight. This creates a perpetually shaded, cool environment, even on a warm day. The undergrowth is thick with ferns and mosses, contributing to the lush, almost prehistoric feel of the rainforest. Many visitors describe the drive as feeling like stepping into a fairytale or a fantasy novel. TikTokInstagram

The most captivating aspect for many is the misty atmosphere, particularly prevalent during the cooler months. This fog weaves through the trees, softening the light and creating an ethereal, dreamlike quality. It transforms the already stunning scenery into something truly magical and unforgettable. TikTokInstagram The winding nature of the road, combined with the dense forest, means that the views constantly change, offering new perspectives around every bend. It’s a journey that engages all the senses, from the visual spectacle to the quiet sounds of nature.

While the drive itself is the main attraction, the surrounding Yarra Ranges National Park offers opportunities for further exploration. Hikers can find numerous trails that delve deeper into the ancient forest, offering a chance to connect more intimately with the natural environment. The lack of phone signal here also encourages a digital detox, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings. Reddit

Navigating and Experiencing Black Spur Drive Safely

Driving Black Spur requires a mindful approach due to its unique characteristics. The Maroondah Highway is a winding road with many tight corners and limited visibility. It's crucial to adhere to the speed limits and drive defensively, anticipating potential hazards. Many visitors emphasize the importance of downloading offline maps as phone reception is unreliable throughout the drive. Reddit

Finding safe places to stop for photos is a common challenge. While the scenery is breathtaking, there are few designated viewpoints. Visitors are advised to use wider, safe pull-off areas and never stop on the road itself, as this poses a significant danger to yourself and other drivers. Reddit Some reviewers have noted people parking unsafely on narrow shoulders to take photos, which is strongly discouraged. Always prioritize safety and be considerate of other road users. Reddit

Wildlife encounters are possible, especially at dawn and dusk. Be vigilant for animals crossing the road. The drive is particularly beautiful in various weather conditions, from sunny days to misty mornings, but always check for any road closures due to extreme weather before you set off. Instagram

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