In the heart of Victoria, Australia lies Toolangi State Forest. It is a peaceful and beautiful spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Famous for its forests, mountain ash trees and wildlife. Perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and appreciating Victoria’s eucalypt forest. Whether you’re a hiker, photographer, or just looking to get back to nature, Toolangi State Forest has something for everyone. In this article we’ll cover everything this amazing forest has to offer, the best trails, top attractions and how to plan your visit.
Natural Beauty of Toolangi State Forest
Toolangi State Forest is part of the Yarra Ranges, only 1.5 hours from Melbourne. 14,000 hectares of old-growth forest with some of the tallest trees in the Southern Hemisphere. Towering Mountain Ash trees, lush fern gullies, vibrant myrtle beech trees and serene streams. The dense canopy and Tree Ferns create a cool, dense, temperate rainforest atmosphere. Sylvia Creek and Myrtle Creek gently flow through the forest, adding to the peace and tranquillity of the environment. Toolangi Sculpture Trail has works of art nestled among the trees, nature and art combined.
Flora and Fauna
The forest is a plant and wildlife lover’s paradise. Eucalypt forest with Mountain Ash trees and unique beech trees. Wirrawilla Rainforest Walk takes you through a pristine part of the Cool Temperate Rainforest. You’ll see birds, lyrebird, crimson rosellas and maybe even koalas or wallabies. The forest’s ability to support wildlife and its beauty makes it a great spot for birdwatching and nature photography.
Toolangi’s Iconic Attractions
- Black Spur Drive: One of the best bits of Toolangi State Forest is the Black Spur Drive, a winding road through Mountain Ash trees and views of the forest. A great place to stop and drive or just pull over Healesville-Kinglake Road.
- Kalatha Giant Tree Walk: The highlight of the forest, this walk takes you through the giant trees of Toolangi State Park. Get up close to some of the biggest and oldest trees in the area and feel the age and beauty of the forest.
- Toolangi Lookout: Views of the forest and Chum Creek Valley. Great spot to take in the whole of Toolangi State Forest and surrounding areas.
Best Walks and Hikes
- Myrtle Gully Circuit: This circuit goes through fern gullies, rainforest, mountain ash and beech trees. Suitable for all fitness levels. A peaceful walk into Toolangi.
- Tanglefoot Loop: A longer and more challenging loop, this track goes along Sylvia Creek Road and through dense trees to Mount Tanglefoot. Views of the big trees and ancient rainforest along the way.
- Tanglefoot Track & Tanglefoot Boardwalk: Easy access to some of the best parts of Toolangi. Walk through old-growth forest and boardwalks over the Yea River.
- Wirrawilla Rainforest Walk: Walk through a pristine Cool Temperate Rainforest and see the area’s biodiversity, ancient Tree Ferns and Mountain Ash. Great for those who want to explore the forest ecosystem.
- Coles Creek Track: A quieter track, walk through the canopy to Myrtle Creek with a couple of creek crossings along the way. A peaceful, untouched environment for nature lovers and those who want to get away.
Wildlife
Toolangi is full of wildlife, and nature lovers will love the variety of animals that live here. Great for birdwatching with lyrebirds, crimson rosellas and other colourful birds in the canopy. Koalas, wallabies, wombats and echidnas live here too. Keep an eye out during your visit.
Best Times to Visit Toolangi
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Wildflowers and greenery bring the forest to life, great for photography and nature walks.
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Toolangi is a cool escape from the heat with shaded tracks and dense forest perfect for hiking and exploring.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Cooler temps and changing leaf colours, best for photography.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Winter mist brings a mystical feel to the forest. The rainforest walks are quiet and peaceful, especially in the morning when the fog lingers among the trees.
Accommodation Near
While Toolangi State Forest is remote, there are several options nearby for visitors. From B&Bs in Healesville and Yarra Glen to more rustic camping, you’ll find something to suit. The nearby Dixons Creek Recreation Reserve is a quiet nature-filled camping spot, and the Tanglefoot Picnic Area is a great spot for lunch or a break after a walk.
How to Get
Toolangi State Forest is only 90 minutes from Melbourne. From the city, take the Maroondah Highway (B300) to Healesville, then Healesville-Kinglake Road to Toolangi State Park. Check the weather before you head out, especially in winter, as the roads can be slippery.
Conclusion
Toolangi State Forest is a nature lover’s, hiker’s and wildlife enthusiast’s paradise. With Mountain Ash trees, giant trees, peaceful walks and diverse wildlife, it’s a unique opportunity to see Victoria’s natural beauty. Whether you want to walk the Wirrawilla Rainforest, hike to Mount Tanglefoot or have a picnic in the forest, Toolangi State Forest is a must-see for anyone who wants to experience Victoria’s wilderness.
If you’re in the area on a Winery Tour Yarra Valley or a Yarra Valley day tour from Melbourne, Toolangi is right on your doorstep.
FAQs
What are the best walks in Toolangi State Forest?
Myrtle Gully Circuit, Tanglefoot Loop, Kalatha Giant Tree Walk, Wirrawilla Rainforest Walk.
Can I see wildlife in Toolangi State Forest?
Yes, koalas, wallabies, lyrebirds and other birds.
Is Toolangi State Forest for all fitness levels?
Yes, walks for all fitness levels, from easy Myrtle Gully Walk to tough Tanglefoot Loop.
Where are the giant trees in Toolangi?
Kalatha Giant Tree Walk is the best place to see the tallest Mountain Ash and giant trees in the area.
When should I visit Toolangi State Forest?
Depends on what you want to experience, but spring and autumn are best for photography, summer is cool and winter is quiet.