
Sherbrooke Forest Melbourne
Escape to the serene beauty of Sherbrooke Forest, a natural wonderland near Melbourne with towering trees and enchanting waterfalls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light & fewer crowds

Sherbrooke Forest Melbourne
Best Time
Golden light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Escape to the serene beauty of Sherbrooke Forest, a natural wonderland near Melbourne with towering trees and enchanting waterfalls.
"Immerse yourself in nature with incredible hiking trails and abundant birdlife."

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uneven with steps and bridges. Good walking shoes are a must for exploring .
🐦 Look for Lyrebirds!
Visit Grant's Picnic Ground in the right season for a chance to see lyrebirds' unique mating displays .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sherbrooke Falls
Sherbrooke Forest
A gentle waterfall nestled within lush ferns, perfect for a short, scenic walk.

Lyrebird Spotting
Grant's Picnic Ground area
Witness the incredible mating rituals of the native lyrebird, especially during certain seasons.
Towering Mountain Ash
Various trails
Walk amongst some of the world's tallest trees, feeling dwarfed by the majestic Mountain Ash.

Puffing Billy Railway
Near Belgrave Station
Experience a nostalgic steam train journey through the Dandenong Ranges, often passing by the forest.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Sherbrooke Forest
Best Trails for You
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uneven with steps and bridges. Good walking shoes are a must for exploring.
🐦 Look for Lyrebirds!
Visit Grant's Picnic Ground in the right season for a chance to see lyrebirds' unique mating displays.
🚗 Parking Advice
Parking can be busy at popular spots like Grant's Picnic Ground. Arrive early or consider alternative access points.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
There are limited facilities within the forest. Bring your own refreshments for a comfortable hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be uneven with steps and bridges. Good walking shoes are a must for exploring.
🐦 Look for Lyrebirds!
Visit Grant's Picnic Ground in the right season for a chance to see lyrebirds' unique mating displays.
🚗 Parking Advice
Parking can be busy at popular spots like Grant's Picnic Ground. Arrive early or consider alternative access points.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
There are limited facilities within the forest. Bring your own refreshments for a comfortable hike.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Mobile reception can be spotty. Download trail maps beforehand to stay on track.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Sherbrooke Forest, highlighting its peaceful atmosphere and excellent hiking trails. The towering trees and abundant birdlife create an immersive nature experience. Some find parking can be challenging on busy days, and accessibility to certain trailheads without a car requires careful planning.
"Great hiking trails."
David S
"Beautiful forest. lots of nature sound .bird sound.awesome views"
Nature Beauty (Maria khan)
""
Gavin Chan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by car, taking about 45-60 minutes. Alternatively, take the Belgrave train line from Melbourne CBD to Belgrave Station. From there, you can walk to some trailheads (like Grant's Picnic Ground) or catch a local bus. Some Redditors suggest walking from Belgrave along Terrys Avenue and Ridge Track.
Yes, but it requires some planning. The Belgrave train line is the primary public transport link. From Belgrave, you can walk to certain parts of the forest or use local bus services. It's advisable to check timetables and walking routes in advance.
Grant's Picnic Ground is a popular starting point for many trails, including Sherbrooke Falls. O'Donohue Picnic Ground is another option. Parking can fill up, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Yes, it's possible to walk from Belgrave Station to parts of Sherbrooke Forest. Some routes involve following roads like Terrys Avenue and Ridge Track. Be aware that Monbulk Road can be busy with traffic.
There are no dedicated shuttle buses operating within Sherbrooke Forest itself. Visitors typically rely on their own vehicles or public transport to reach the forest and then explore on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Sherbrooke Forest is completely free! You can wander through the beautiful natural landscapes without any admission cost.
Sherbrooke Forest is generally open daily from dawn till dusk. There are no set opening or closing times for the natural park itself.
No booking is required for hiking in Sherbrooke Forest. It's a public park, and you can visit and explore the trails at your leisure.
While not a regular occurrence, community groups like @coexist_melbourne sometimes organize guided hikes in the area.
It's best to check local event listings or social media for any upcoming organized walks.While the forest is technically accessible, it's not recommended to visit at night due to safety concerns and lack of lighting. Stick to daylight hours for the best and safest experience.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Sherbrooke Falls walk (easy, 20-60 mins), the Sherbrooke Forest Circuit (moderate, 12km), and various loops starting from Grant's Picnic Ground. The choice depends on your desired length and difficulty.
Absolutely! The Sherbrooke Falls walk is a great beginner-friendly option, offering a beautiful experience with minimal effort.
Longer circuits are also manageable for those new to hiking.Yes, Sherbrooke Forest is known for its diverse birdlife, including the iconic lyrebird, especially around Grant's Picnic Ground.
You might also spot other native animals.Yes, there are several picnic areas, including Grant's Picnic Ground and O'Donohue Picnic Ground, equipped with tables and facilities for a pleasant outdoor meal.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat. A camera is also recommended to capture the stunning scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for the cascading Sherbrooke Falls, the towering Mountain Ash trees, the winding forest paths, and the iconic boathouse at Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens (nearby).
The dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy also creates beautiful shots.Yes, the natural beauty of the forest provides ample opportunities for stunning photography. The light can be challenging in dense areas, but wide-angle lenses and patience can yield great results.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light, with golden hues and softer shadows. Midday can be harsh, but the dense canopy still provides interesting light play.
Yes, but it requires patience and a good zoom lens. Lyrebirds and various bird species are common subjects. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and protected areas to ensure the safety of visitors and wildlife. It's best to check with Parks Victoria or relevant authorities before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
📸 Nature Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Sherbrooke Forest
For those seeking unique natural phenomena, the area around Grant's Picnic Ground is renowned for its lyrebird population. During specific times of the year, you can witness these incredible birds performing their elaborate mating rituals. Trails like the Lyrebird Walk and Cole's Ridge Track are excellent starting points for this wildlife spotting adventure. Remember to tread lightly and observe from a respectful distance to maximize your chances of seeing these fascinating creatures.
When planning your hike, consider using resources like AllTrails or consulting local park information to choose the best route for your needs. Some Redditors suggest exploring less-trafficked paths like Coles Ridge Track for a more serene experience away from the main crowds. Always be prepared with appropriate footwear, water, and snacks, as facilities can be limited within the forest itself.
The Magic of the Puffing Billy Railway
Many visitors combine a trip on the Puffing Billy with a hike in Sherbrooke Forest. You can often catch glimpses of the train from certain walking tracks, or plan your itinerary to include a ride before or after your forest exploration. The Belgrave station serves as a key hub for both the train and public transport access to the forest, making it a convenient starting point for a day trip.
Booking tickets for the Puffing Billy in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends, as it is a popular attraction. The experience is particularly magical for families and those looking for a memorable way to see the Dandenong Ranges.
Wildlife Encounters in Sherbrooke Forest
Beyond the lyrebirds, the forest is alive with various bird species. Keep an ear out for the calls of kookaburras, rosellas, and other native birds as you wander through the trees. The dense canopy and undergrowth provide a rich habitat for these creatures. While less common, you might also encounter other small mammals if you're lucky and observant.
To enhance your wildlife viewing experience, consider visiting during the quieter hours of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. Always maintain a respectful distance from animals, avoid feeding them, and refrain from making loud noises that could disturb their natural behavior. Bringing binoculars can also significantly improve your chances of spotting elusive wildlife.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit