
Tanglefoot Loop
Hike through ancient, towering Mountain Ash forests and discover breathtaking views on the Tanglefoot Loop in Toolangi.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views from summit

Tanglefoot Loop
Best Time
Best views from summit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through ancient, towering Mountain Ash forests and discover breathtaking views on the Tanglefoot Loop in Toolangi.
"A truly wild and unspoiled natural environment, living up to its 'tangled' name!"

👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The trail can be uneven with undergrowth. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Leeches are common
Especially after rain. Carry repellent and check yourself regularly. :bug:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Towering Mountain Ash
Toolangi State Forest
Walk amongst giants in these ancient, towering Mountain Ash forests. A truly awe-inspiring experience.

Mount St. Leonard Views
Summit of Mount St. Leonard
Breathtaking panoramic views await at the summit, offering a rewarding contrast to the dense forest.

Vibrant Fern Gullies
Along the loop trail
Discover lush, vibrant fern gullies that add a magical, almost prehistoric feel to the walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the 'Tangle'!
Timing is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The trail can be uneven with undergrowth. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Leeches are common
Especially after rain. Carry repellent and check yourself regularly. :bug:
🗺️ Download offline maps
Mobile reception can be spotty. Be prepared with offline navigation. :iphone:
📸 Capture the giants
The towering trees are a photographer's dream. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
The trail can be uneven with undergrowth. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Leeches are common
Especially after rain. Carry repellent and check yourself regularly. :bug:
🗺️ Download offline maps
Mobile reception can be spotty. Be prepared with offline navigation. :iphone:
📸 Capture the giants
The towering trees are a photographer's dream. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
🚗 Combine with local towns
Visit Healesville for lunch or a winery stop on your way. :wine_glass:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Tanglefoot Loop's immersive experience in ancient forests and stunning views from Mount St. Leonard. While the 'tangled' trails and potential for leeches are noted, they are often seen as part of the wild adventure. The opportunity to combine the hike with local wineries or towns adds to its appeal.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tanglefoot Loop is located in Toolangi State Forest, just over an hour's drive from Melbourne CBD. It's about 25 minutes from Healesville, making it a great option for a day trip. You can drive directly to the trailhead.
Public transport options to Toolangi State Forest are very limited. Driving is the most practical way to access the Tanglefoot Loop. Consider carpooling if you're traveling with others.
Parking is available at the trailhead. It can get busy on weekends, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Yes, the roads leading to the Tanglefoot Loop trailhead are generally accessible by 2WD vehicles. However, always check local road conditions before you travel, especially after heavy rain.
While specific coordinates can vary slightly, searching for 'Tanglefoot Loop Trailhead Toolangi' on your GPS or mapping app should guide you accurately.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Tanglefoot Loop and Toolangi State Forest is generally free. There are no admission fees required to access the walking trails.
Toolangi State Forest is accessible at all times. The Tanglefoot Loop is an outdoor trail, so you can hike it during daylight hours. It's best to start well before dusk.
There is no entrance fee for Toolangi State Forest. The Tanglefoot Loop is a public access trail within the forest.
While not as common as for more popular national parks, some local tour operators might offer guided walks in Toolangi State Forest. It's worth checking with local tourism providers in the Yarra Valley region.
No specific permits are required for day hiking on the Tanglefoot Loop. However, if you plan on camping or engaging in other activities, check with Parks Victoria for any necessary regulations.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Tanglefoot Loop is approximately 10.31 km and typically takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the scenery.
The Tanglefoot Loop is generally considered a moderate hike. It involves some uneven terrain, inclines, and can be a bit 'tangled' with undergrowth, as the name suggests.
Basic facilities like picnic tables might be available at designated spots within Toolangi State Forest, but there are no toilets directly on the Tanglefoot Loop itself. Plan accordingly.
You might encounter native birds, including lyrebirds, and various insects. Keep an eye out for smaller marsupials, though they are often shy.
Yes, the Tanglefoot Loop is a popular trail for trail running, offering a challenging and scenic route through the forest.
📸 📸 Photography
The towering Mountain Ash trees, lush fern gullies, and the panoramic views from Mount St. Leonard are prime photography locations. Look for shafts of light filtering through the canopy.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, dramatic effects in the forest. Foggy conditions can also lend a unique, ethereal quality to your shots.
Drone usage in Victorian State Forests is subject to regulations. It's essential to check the latest rules with Parks Victoria or relevant authorities before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the trees and forest. A macro lens can be useful for the smaller details like ferns and fungi. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
While possible, wildlife sightings are often fleeting. A telephoto lens can increase your chances of capturing birds or other shy creatures. Patience is key!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
👟 Active Adventurers & Trail Runners
📸 Nature Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Tanglefoot Loop
Hikers often mention encountering leeches, particularly during the warmer months or after rainfall. It's advisable to wear long socks, tuck your trousers into your boots, and carry a good insect repellent or a salt solution to deter them. Despite these challenges, the reward is a truly wild and unspoiled natural environment. The loop is approximately 10.31 km long and typically takes between 3 to 4 hours to complete, making it a substantial half-day adventure.
The Majesty of Toolangi's Forests
This environment is not just visually stunning but also ecologically significant. The forest is home to various native wildlife, including the iconic Superb Lyrebird, known for its incredible mimicry. While sightings can be rare due to their shy nature, the presence of such unique creatures adds to the magic of the Tanglefoot experience. The combination of towering trees, dense ferns, and the potential for wildlife encounters makes the Tanglefoot Loop a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Beyond the Trail: Local Charm
For those who enjoy wine, the Yarra Valley is a world-renowned wine region with numerous wineries offering tastings and cellar door experiences. Combining a hike on the Tanglefoot Loop with a visit to a local winery or a leisurely lunch in Healesville makes for a perfect day trip from Melbourne. This blend of rugged natural beauty and sophisticated local offerings provides a well-rounded experience for visitors.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit