Easy hikes and walks in Maribyrnong Valley Parklands

The multi-use Maribyrnong River Trail follows its eponymous river for nearly 25 kilometres through northwest Melbourne. Along the way it passes through multiple parks and neighbourhoods where walkers, joggers, and cyclists can stop to enjoy the scenery or meet friends at one of the cafés that lie a short distance from the path.

This short crossing connects the trails on either side of the Maribyrnong River. It can get flooded when the water is high so don't plan on using it after heavy rain.

This beautiful park is a revitalised floodplain wetland along the Maribyrnong River, created to improve water quality and foster local biodiversity. There are picnic areas and a network of boardwalks and shared pathways throughout the grounds, where you can explore the area and observe the diverse birdlife and native plant species up close. This peaceful, nature-focused space is connected to the Maribyrnong River Trail, making it the perfect spot for a quiet escape amid the bustling surrounding urban environment.

Maribyrnong River Trail is a great multi-use path that follows the river for roughly 25 kilometres, connecting the inner suburbs to Melbourne’s northwest. The trail combines sealed paths with riverside scenery, passing parks, wetlands, and historical sites along the way. It’s relatively flat and easy, making it an ideal route for both casual walkers and longer-distance cyclists.

Heavenly Queen Temple is a large Taoist temple dedicated to Mazu, the Chinese sea goddess, and is considered the largest of its kind in Australia. Set along the Maribyrnong River, the complex features traditional Chinese architecture inspired by Beijing’s Forbidden City, expansive gardens, and a prominent gold-painted statue of Mazu. Easily reached from nearby trails, the temple is open daily from around 9:30 am to 3:30 pm, and with free admission, it's a culturally rich and visually impressive stop along the river corridor.

Footscray Park is a large heritage-listed riverside park along the Maribyrnong River, known for its beautiful ornamental gardens, open lawns, and mature trees. Established in the early 20th century, the grounds include landscaped terraces, rose gardens, and plenty of picnic areas with expansive views of the city skyline. Its riverside paths connect directly to the Maribyrnong River Trail, making it a popular starting point for walking and cycling.

Anglers Tavern is a waterfront bistro with awesome river views from its dining room with big windows. It has great food, including fish, and lots of parking.

Pipemakers Park sits along the Maribyrnong River and has displays on industrial and Indigenous history. Here you'll find Melbourne's Living Museum of the West, "Pipedreams" Sculpture, the Nature Playground, and the History of the Land Discovery Trail garden. There are two large free car parks, so it's a great place to start a hike as well.