Features:
The Dandenong Ranges National Park is a little further outside the city than some of our other routes, but if you’re an avid trail runner, or someone who just wants to mix it up with a challenging workout, this scenic detour may be worth your while. We’ve created an extensive guide to running in the area, with 15+ great routes. See here!
Especially noteworthy is the Kokoda Memorial Walk, more commonly known as “1000 Steps.” This 1.4 km flight of stairs is a testament to the tenacity of Australian soldiers who trekked the Kokoda Trail in World War II. It’s steep and narrow, so proceed with caution, but it’s a fun and challenging workout through lush ferns, gum, and blackwood trees. If you’re looking for something other than (or in addition to) 1000 steps to run up and down, the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges here have a wide variety of scenic trails — take your pick! One popular route for running is the 4.8 km Sherbrooke Trail.
- 1.4 km one way with longer options
- 585 feet over 1.4 km!
- Start at the Memorial Walk entrance just of Dandenong Mountain Tourist Road
- If you don’t have your own wheels, you can take the train to the Upper Ferntree Gully Station.
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