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Has the ‘5-9’ trend, where people are reclaiming the hours after work for hobbies and meaningful experiences, been all over your social media feed recently? Us too. Also known as ‘microadventures’, it seems as though we Aussies are determined to make the most of every day, rather than just living for the weekend, by filling those pre- and post-work hours with short (and achievable) outdoor adventures.
And with recent news that Victorian’s now have the legal right to work from home two days a week, there's never been a better time to swap the commute for a quick side-quest in nature.
With microadventures on the up, AllTrails has jumped in to share its pick of the top ten easy nature escapes around Melbourne. These experiences cater to both beginners and pros, covering everything from riverside hikes to leisurely walking loops — all within easy reach of the city. How good!
Ready to log off and get back to nature? Find your next (or first) microadventure via this list.
The top ten nature ‘microadventures’ near Melbourne:
Mounty Lofty Loop, Warrandyte State Park
One of the state's most popular hikes, this easygoing five-kilometre loop boasts panoramic views of the Yarra Valley and makes for prime wildlife spotting (keep an eye out for kangaroos and wallabies).
Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk, Werribee Gorge State Park
This 7.7-kilometre circuit begins from a stunning picnic area and tracks a beautiful (and well-signed) path along the Werribee River. You’ll want good shoes for this one, as the hike has some rocky scrambles and a cable-assisted section.
Yellow Gum Circuit, Plenty Gorge Park
A 6.4 kilometre loop that winds through the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people, with epic views over Blue Lake and bountiful yellow gums.
Burkes Lookout, Dandenong Ranges National Park
Test your fitness on this short walk (it's just 2.3 kilometres in length) that offers ten out of ten city views. Keen to keep going? Burkes Lookout connects to a number of additional trails so you can make a full day of it if you want.
Sherbrooke Forest Circuit, Dandenong Ranges National Park
Could this be the most lush loop on the list? Wander past towering mountain ash trees on this 12-kilometre circuit, where ancient ferns line the path and you can stop to admire the cascades of Sherbrooke Falls. Look out for lyrebirds, too.
Black Flat to Jumping Creek Loop, Warrandyte State Park
At almost six kilometres in total, this is perfect for adventurers seeking out rugged bushland via a manageable but engaging track. Wear sturdy shoes for a small section that requires you climb up a boulder.
Pound Bend Loop, Warrandyte State Park
Another one in Warrandyte State Park, this 3.4-kilometre loop is where you can spot platypus, koalas or wombats (or all three for the trifecta) along a peaceful trail that hugs the Yarra River.
Yarra Bend Park Loop, Yarra Bend Park
Yarra Bend Park is Melbourne's largest natural bushland park, and this 8.7-kilometre route hits all the highlights: top-notch vantage points for spotting red gums, the rapid Dights Falls, Studley Park Boathouse and the flying fox migration at dusk.
Blue Tongue Bend Trail Loop, Warrandyte State Park
Nature is in full bloom along this 3.9-kilometre track. Catch a glimpse of vibrant wildflowers on this winding trail of bushland along the banks of the Yarra River.
Tan Track, Royal Botanic Gardens
A favourite for a reason. Melbourne’s legendary walking spot, the Tan, makes a picturesque lap around the Royal Botanic Gardens and Kings Domain – and hosts one of the best fun runs for beginners in all of Australia.