The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Sugarloaf Reservoir Park
4.5
(26)
410
hikers
6
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Sugarloaf Reservoir Park are situated northeast of Melbourne, characterized by the expansive Sugarloaf Reservoir and surrounding low hills. The terrain features a mix of open bushland and heavily timbered areas, with gentle to moderate ascents providing views across the Yarra Valley. The park's landscape includes diverse natural features, from reservoir shorelines to bushland paths.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Sugarloaf Reservoir Park
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Sugarloaf Reservoir circuit via…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
4.8
(9)
96
hikers
15.1km
04:02
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
7.24km
01:54
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(8)
167
hikers
4.96km
01:23
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
36
hikers
3.89km
01:02
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
22
hikers
4.57km
01:13
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Yarra River runs for over 240 kilometres from the Yarra Ranges through Melbourne and out into Port Phillip Bay, forming one of Victoria’s main waterways. In this section of Warrandyte State Park, the track sits right beside the riverbank, placing you close to the water and making it a good spot for photos across the bend.
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Blue Tongue Bend Track follows a quieter section of the Yarra River through river red gum forest and bushland near Jumping Creek. The track alternates between riverbank walking and slightly higher ridge sections, with views across the broad sweep of the river at Blue Tongue Bend itself. This part of the park is known for birdlife, native vegetation, and remnant gold rush history scattered through the surrounding hills.
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Jumping Creek Reserve is a family friendly park with amenities like restrooms, a car park, a canoe lunch and covered and uncovered picnic area with BBQs. This reserve can get busy on a hot summer day, being right on the bank of the Yarra River, so come early when its warm!
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Black Flat Picnic Area, in Warrandyte State Park, is a green space along the south shores of the Yarra River. There are dirt tracks around Black Flats, passing under towering eucalyptus trees and following the river's edge for a scenic walk immersed in nature.
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The Yarra River flows 242 kilometres from near Mount Matlock to the Yarra Valley to Melbourne. Here the river cuts though North Warrandyte, creating lovely green spaces along the banks to swim, walk, picnic and enjoy.
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The Chris Phillips Walking Track follows the edge of Sugarloaf Reservoir, linking open shoreline sections with stretches through bushland. The path is well formed, with wide gravel surfaces and mostly level terrain, making it an easy, steady walk. Wildlife is a standout here. It’s worth keeping an eye out for wedge-tailed eagles overhead, along with kangaroos, wallabies, and echidnas in the surrounding bush. You’ll get regular views across the reservoir as you move between more open and sheltered sections.
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Sugarloaf Reservoir is a large water storage reservoir supplying Melbourne, set within low hills and bushland. The shoreline curves through inlets and open stretches, giving it a more varied shape than a typical lake. Recreation is limited to protect water quality, but shoreline fishing is allowed in designated areas with a valid licence. You’ll often see people casting from the edges, especially in quieter sections away from the main picnic areas.
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From the lookouts around Sugarloaf Reservoir, you get wide views across the water framed by low hills and scattered bushland. Spots like this one sit slightly elevated, giving a clearer sense of the reservoir’s scale as it stretches across the valley.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there in Sugarloaf Reservoir Park?
Sugarloaf Reservoir Park offers a selection of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features 3 routes specifically chosen for their suitability for families, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures.
What is the easiest family-friendly hike in Sugarloaf Reservoir Park?
For an easy family outing, consider the Sugarloaf Reservoir loop from Bend of Islands. This route is approximately 6.9 km long and can typically be completed in under two hours, offering a pleasant walk through bushland and along the reservoir shoreline.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families in Sugarloaf Reservoir Park?
Yes, several family-friendly routes in Sugarloaf Reservoir Park are circular. A popular option is the Sugarloaf Reservoir circuit via Chris Phillips Walking Track, which is a moderate 15 km loop offering varied scenery around the reservoir. Another great choice is the Mount Lofty Circuit Walk, an easy 4.9 km loop.
What kind of wildlife can we expect to see on family hikes in Sugarloaf Reservoir Park?
Sugarloaf Reservoir Park is rich in wildlife. On your family hikes, you might spot kangaroos, wallabies (including black-tailed wallabies), and echidnas in the bushland. Keep an eye on the sky for wedge-tailed eagles soaring overhead, especially around the reservoir.
Are there good viewpoints or picnic spots along the family trails?
Absolutely! The park features several lookouts providing stunning views of the reservoir and the surrounding Yarra Valley. For picnics, designated areas like Saddle Dam Picnic Area and Ridge Picnic Area (which also has barbecue facilities) are perfect for a family break during or after your hike.
What is the best time of year to visit Sugarloaf Reservoir Park with family?
The park is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and pleasant temperatures, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are best. Winter provides cooler, crisp air, ideal for longer walks, but be prepared for potential muddy sections after rain.
Is there parking available for families visiting Sugarloaf Reservoir Park?
Yes, Sugarloaf Reservoir Park has designated parking areas, making it convenient for families to access the trails. Specific car parks are usually located near popular trailheads and picnic areas.
Can we access Sugarloaf Reservoir Park using public transport?
While public transport options to the immediate vicinity of Sugarloaf Reservoir Park are limited, it is primarily accessed by car. Planning your visit with private transport is generally recommended for ease of access with family.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly trails in Sugarloaf Reservoir Park?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Sugarloaf Reservoir Park, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the tranquil atmosphere, making it a fantastic destination for family outings.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near Sugarloaf Reservoir Park?
While there are no cafes directly within the park, the nearby towns and localities around Christmas Hills and the Yarra Valley offer various dining options, from casual cafes to pubs, where families can refuel after their hike.
What is the longest family-friendly trail featured in this guide?
The longest family-friendly trail in this guide is the Sugarloaf Reservoir circuit via Chris Phillips Walking Track, which spans approximately 15 km. It's a moderate route that offers a comprehensive experience of the park's diverse landscapes.
Are the trails in Sugarloaf Reservoir Park suitable for strollers?
Many of the trails, particularly sections of the Chris Phillips Walking Track, feature well-formed, wide gravel surfaces that can be suitable for sturdy, all-terrain strollers. However, some paths may have steeper sections or uneven terrain, so it's advisable to check specific route details for suitability with younger children or strollers.
Most popular routes in Sugarloaf Reservoir Park
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