redwood forest melbourne

A Day Trip to the Redwood Forest Melbourne

Warburton is a charming town about 90 minutes east of Melbourne and home to a number of incredible nature spots! One of my favourite places to explore here is the Redwood Forest, home to the Californian Redwood trees that seem straight out of a fairytale. With towering trunks, rich green undergrowth and dappled sunlight filtering through, the Redwood Forest is an ideal escape from the city. Here is a quick guide on visiting the Redwood Forest in Melbourne.

Getting to the Redwood Forest

By Car: The easiest way to reach the Redwood Forest is by car. Follow the Eastern Freeway (M3) from Melbourne, then merge onto the Maroondah Highway (B300) towards Lilydale and Warburton. As you near Warburton, turn onto Cement Creek Road, which leads directly to the Redwood Forest. The journey takes around 90 minutes, depending on traffic and there is limited free parking available onsite.

Public Transport: There isn’t a direct way to get to the Redwood Forests by public transport. If you’re without a ar, you can take a train from Melbourne’s CBD to Lilydale Station on the Lilydale line. From there, catch bus 683 towards Warburton. This won’t bring you directly to the forest, but you can get off at the closest stop and then take a short taxi ride or a long scenic walk to reach the forest itself.

redwood forest warburton

What to Do at the Redwood Forest

Walk Amongst the Giants: The main attraction is undoubtedly the impressive redwoods themselves. These trees, originally planted in the 1930s, tower over visitors at heights of around 55 metres. A meander through these perfectly aligned trees is peaceful and slightly surreal!

If you’re a fan of Californian Redwood Trees, I highly recommend visiting the Redwood Trees in Rotorua! Honestly one of the most incredible parks I’ve ever visited.

Picnic Areas: Pack a picnic to enjoy under the trees or along Cement Creek. The forest offers natural spots where you can lay out a blanket and relax, though there are no formal picnic facilities, so bring any necessities you may need.

Photography: The rows of towering redwoods make for striking photography opportunities, especially as the light changes throughout the day. Early morning or late afternoon is often the best time to capture the forest at its most atmospheric.

Bushwalking Trails: The nearby O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail offers an accessible walk through native Australian bushland, providing scenic views and opportunities to spot local wildlife. It’s a fantastic way to extend your day trip if you’d like to see more than just the redwoods.

redwood forest melbourne

Birdwatching: There are a variety of bird species in this area, including kookaburras, cockatoos and colourful parrots. We were surprised by how loud they were during our trip to the forest!

The Rainforest Gallery

If you’re spending time at the Redwood Forest, I recommend heading to the nearby Rainforest Gallery. This is a treetop walk through the forest and is a must-do if you’re in the area. Here is a guide on the Rainforest Gallery and all the amazing things to see there.

Where to Eat

Warburton offers several delightful dining options within a short drive of the forest:

Alpine Hotel: My favourite place to eat in Warburton is the Alpine Hotel! Really great pub food set in a cute garden.

the alpine hotel warburton

Riverview Café & Wine Bar: Located along the Yarra River, Riverview Café offers a range of locally sourced dishes and excellent coffee. Perfect for a post-walk lunch or snack with a view of the river.

Little Joe: For a more substantial meal, head to Little Joe in Warburton’s main township. They offer a variety of hearty meals, from burgers and sandwiches to pizzas, making it a great choice for refuelling after your forest adventures.

Warburton Bakery: If you’re after a quick bite, Warburton Bakery is a popular choice. Grab a pie, sandwich or something sweet for the road. They’ve got good doughnuts!

FAQs

Is There an Entry Fee for the Redwood Forest?

No, the Redwood Forest is free to visit.

Can I bring my dog?

No, dogs are not allowed in the Redwood Forest as it’s a National Park. Most National Parks in Victoria (and Australia in general) don’t allow dogs.

Are there toilet facilities?

Unfortunately, there are no toilet facilities at the Redwood Forest. The nearest facilities are located in Warburton town centre.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

The forest is beautiful year-round, but autumn and winter often bring a mystical fog that enhances the atmosphere. Spring and summer bring brighter days and warmer weather, making it perfect for picnics. I recommend picking a day that isn’t raining.

How long should I plan to spend here?

Most visitors find 1-2 hours sufficient to explore the redwoods, with additional time for nearby trails or a leisurely lunch in Warburton.

Tips for Visiting the Redwood Forest

Dress Appropriately: The forest can be cooler than Melbourne, so bring layers, especially in autumn and winter.

Pack Out What You Pack In: There are no bins in the forest, so remember to take any rubbish with you.

Check for Weather Conditions: Rain can make the forest pathways slippery, so wear appropriate footwear and check the weather forecast ahead of time. I would avoid coming here if it’s forecast to rain.

Other great places to walk around Melbourne include Port Nepean National Park, 1000 Steps in Dandenong and cape schanck!

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