Dandenong Ranges National Park

The Dandenong Ranges National Park in Victoria, Australia is a popular destination in the Greater Melbourne region.

It covers a vast area of 3,540 hectares and combines five former parklands. The park has a rich history and was proclaimed in 1987.

The Dandenong Ranges were initially inhabited by Aboriginal people and later used for farming. From the 1870s, tourism flourished with the development of roads and railways. The park was established in 1987, incorporating various reserved areas.

The park is divided into five sections, each with its own unique features and attractions. Doongalla Forest includes Mount Dandenong and offers panoramic views of Melbourne. Ferntree Gully is home to the popular Thousands Steps trail, known for its fitness challenges and scenic picnics. Mount Evelyn Forest features walking tracks ideal for bird watching. Olinda Forest is perfect for leisurely strolls and bird watching. Sherbrooke Forest boasts the largest area of cool temperate rainforest in the Dandenong Ranges, with diverse native flora and fauna.

In the past, the park faced issues with feral and roaming animals due to its urban location newline.