Love dogs? Love the outdoors? Then you’re in for a treat (and so is your pup)! Whether you’re up for a gentle river stroll or a full-blown trail run with your four-legged bestie, we’ve got your ultimate list of Victoria’s most dog-friendly adventures — personally picked by trail queen and dog lover, Amy Hewitt, founder of the Barkin Mad Ultra.
Meet Amy – Trailblazer & Founder of Barkin Mad Ultra
Amy is the driving force behind Barkin Mad Ultra – Australia’s first-ever inclusive trail running event for dogs and their humans. Held every October in Gippsland, it’s more than just a race — it’s a celebration of the powerful bond between people and pups. With events from 2km all the way to a 50km ultra, it’s perfect for everyone from beginners to seasoned trail hounds.
But Amy’s passion doesn’t stop there — Barkin Mad also raises funds for Hair of the Dog Rescue (HOTD), a Victorian-based charity rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming dogs in need. Running for a cause has never felt so rewarding (or so fluffy).
Lights, Camera, Leash! – Top Dog Film Festival Highlights
This year’s Top Dog Film Festival features not one but TWO heart-pounding trail-running dog films:
- George (UK) – A sweet pup becomes a symbol of healing in the Cumbrian hills.
- SuperNova: The 100 Mile Dog (USA) – Follow a Hungarian Vizsla and her ultra-runner dad on an epic endurance adventure. Pack tissues.
Now, let’s hit the trails! Here are Amy’s top picks for the best dog-friendly runs and walks in Victoria — trail-tested and tail-approved.
Melbourne & Metro Mischief
???? Yarra Ranges City Loop – Leafy paths close to the city, perfect for inner-urban sniffing and striding.
???? Port Melbourne to Brighton Beach – Flat, breezy and full of dog-friendly cafés. Ideal for a relaxed run or beach-bound stroll.
???? Albert Park Lake Loop – A Melbourne classic! Scenic and pup-populated — bring your running shoes and a ball.
Northern Victoria – Rugged and Woofy
- Mt Macedon, Macedon Ranges – Epic singletrack through cool forest. Great for adventurous dogs (and their humans) with energy to burn.
Central Highlands – Forest Bathing, Furry Style
- Mathias Road – Dandenongs Rail Trail – Gentle gradients and peaceful vibes.
- Warburton River Walk – Short, sweet and near adorable dog-friendly cafés. Walk, then coffee.
- Lala Falls Walk – A lush waterfall loop with splash zones.
- Tanglefoot Loop – Toolangi – Dreamy tall trees and mossy magic.
- Frank Thompson Reserve – Kinglake National Park – Forest trails, native birds, and all the tail-wagging energy you could ask for.
- O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail – Warburton – Peaceful, shaded, and perfect for cruisy long runs or thoughtful walks.
- RJ Hamer Arboretum – Olinda – A local gem with panoramic views and winding trails.
Coastal Victoria – Salt, Sand & Paws
- George Bass Coastal Walk – Kilcunda- Sweeping sea views and rolling hills. Grab brunch at the dog-loving Bayside Lady Café in Inverloch.
- Waratah Bay Beach- An off-leash paradise with waves to chase and sticks to fetch!
Western Victoria – Wild and Free
- Flinders Peak – You Yangs- A short detour off the Great Ocean Road, with rocky paths and rewarding views.
- Lerderderg Heritage Walk- Steeped in gold rush history, this gorge-side trail is great for exploring with a hardy pup.
Gippsland – Where Barkin Mad was Born
This region isn’t just home to Amy — it’s the birthplace of the Barkin Mad Ultra!
- Rokeby Rail Trail – Rokeby/Crossover
Home to the Barkin Mad Ultra & Twilight Run. Gorgeous singletrack, forest serenity, and the iconic trestle bridge make this trail one of Amy’s personal favourites. - Toorongo Falls Walk – Noojee
Waterfalls, forests, and post-hike treats at Red Duck Café or The Noojee Pub — need we say more? - Great Southern Rail Trail – Leongatha
Cruisy, scenic, and perfect for longer trots. - Uralla Nature Reserve – Trafalgar
A steep little gem that rewards you with epic views. - Ada Tree Walk – Latrobe State Forest
Walk amongst giants – this towering mountain ash is worth the detour. - Glen Nayook Reserve – Neerim
A cute, shady track with bubbling creeks. Great for curious pups. - Grand Ridge Trail – Mirboo North
A flat, peaceful escape nestled in forest. - Nangara Reserve – Jindivick
Short, sweet and rich in memorial charm.
Alpine Victoria – Snow, Rivers & High Views
- Collectors Cirque Trail – Dinner Plain
Yes, your dog can experience snow! Bring a coat for both of you. - Ovens River Canyons Walk – Bright
Perfect for hot days — your pup will love splashing around the river. - Apex Lookout – Bright
A secret sunrise hike with golden-hour magic. - Mt Mystic – Bright
For mountain dogs with big energy. Panoramic views at the top! - Tramline Walkway – Walhalla
Winding through a historic gold town, this trail is a pawsome heritage walk.
Ready to Get Inspired?
Dont miss the Top Dog Film Festival for a double dose of trail-dog inspiration with the story of George and Supernova! Get your tickets today- https://topdogfilmfestival.com.au/tickets/
After you’ve seen the films, we can almost guarantee you’ll want to hit the trails yourself!
Run, hike, or wag your way to Barkin Mad Ultra this October – whether you’re doing 2km or 50km, it’s all about sharing the trail with your best mate and supporting dog rescue through HOTD. Visit https://www.hairofthedogrescue.org.au/about-5 for more information.
Let’s get those paws muddy, hearts full, and tails wagging. See you on the trail!
