Best trails in Mornington Peninsula National Park
Mornington Peninsula National Park is located on the coast of Greater Melbourne, in Victoria on Bunurong land. Its landscape consists of beautiful ocean beaches and cliffs covered with dense, sand dunes and tidal rock pools that are home to happy colonies of kangaroos. It is also a favorite with surfers. But if you prefer staying dry, you will enjoy one of the panoramic trails. One of the most popular routes is the Coast Walk, a two-day 30-kilometer hike along the cliffs and beaches. But there are also a range of short to medium-length walks in the area.
Top trails
- (926)•Moderate•7.9 mi•Est. 3.5–4 hrThis spectacular coastal walk begins from Bushrangers Bay Picnic Area off of Boneo Road and highlights many of the dramatic features that Mornington Peninsula National Park is known for. Walking the two bays track past Burrabong Creek and along the sea cliffs towards the Cape Schanck Lighthouse, listen to the crashing waves below and keep your eyes sharp for birdlife, kangaroos, and wallabies around the track. Check out the lighthouse and have a snack before heading down to see Pulpit Rock...
- (590)•Moderate•4.3 mi•Est. 1.5–2 hrEnjoy this lovely family-friendly trail through the Mornington Peninsula National Park, located south of Melbourne, Victoria. This out-and-back route begins and ends at the parking area at the end of Cape Schnack Road. Enjoy making your way along the Two Bays Walking Track through a diverse range of scenery down to the beach at Bushrangers Bay and back again.
- (359)•Moderate•3.8 mi•Est. 1.5–2 hrFor those on limited time or simply looking for a shorter walk than going all the way to Cape Schanck this 5.5km return walk to Bushranger Bay is the ticket! Located in the Mornington Peninsula National Park, the trail begins about an hour and a half drive from Melbourne, Victoria. The track itself is relatively easy but offers limited shade so bring sunscreen and a hat. The path to Bushrangers Bay passes by coast banksias and an abundance of birdlife. It offers sweeping views of the rugged...
- (319)•Hard•15.8 mi•Est. 7–7.5 hrThe Two Bays Walking Trail is the longest continuous walking track on the Mornington Peninsula. It stretches from Dromana on Port Phillip Bay to Bushrangers Bay near Cape Schanck, showcasing a variety of landscapes along the way. The trail takes you through the beautiful bushland and beach scenery of Arthurs Seat State Park and Mornington Peninsula National Park. You can also choose to experience the trail in smaller segments if you prefer. The trail is challenging from a distance...
- (181)•Easy•1.1 mi•Est. 0.5–1 hrA beautiful walk through the Mornington Peninsula National Park in Victoria, located in the southern most tip of the peninsula. This looped route begins and ends from the Cape Schanck Picnic and parking area. There are lots of amazing views along the way as you make your way down to the beach, returning via a different route.
- (246)•Moderate•3.9 mi•Est. 1.5–2 hrGet ready for a great coastal adventure on the Fingal Beach Loop, starting from the well-equipped Fingal Picnic Area. The track wanders through thick ti-tree scrub with a few lookouts where you can get a stunning view of the wild Bass Strait and some rugged basalt cliffs. There is a large set of stairs down to the beach, so be ready for a bit of a workout, but it’s worth it for the quiet beach at the bottom. It’s a real hidden gem on the Mornington Peninsula.
- (186)•Moderate•19.0 mi•Est. 7.5–8.5 hrThis is a return hike along Two Bays Walking Track in the Morning Peninsula National Park aka Greens Bush. This walk can be started at either end but is best started from the Baldry's Crossing trailhead. This was a pretty epic trail with stunning scenery - particularly the reveal of the coastline and leads you through a variety of environments that alternate will between shaded forest, sunny open plains, then through nice fields and a great scenic beach walk towards Cape Schanck. A wide...
- (244)•Moderate•9.0 mi•Est. 3–3.5 hrThis route winds along the cliff tops offering wonderful views of the coastline, beaches as well as the chance to spot seabirds, seals and whales. There are historical markers along the way giving information on the past of this area. This track is one of the most accessible walks in the area. It can be broken down into shorter walks of a few kilometres or less, as there are multiple access points from roads, as well as public buses at the Sorrento end.
- (121)•Moderate•4.5 mi•Est. 2–2.5 hrThis hike is perfect for those who want to get the most out of their walk. The trail offers stunning views of the clifftops and a private beach to enjoy. You can start at Fingal Picnic Area, which is located 2km north of Cape Schanck. From there, walk through the scrub forest and take advantage of the lookout spots. Not only do they provide breathtaking views of the end of the Mornington Peninsula, but they also give you a chance to catch your breath. Be prepared to walk down a lot of...
- (153)•Moderate•10.4 miThis trail starts at the historic Cape Schanck Lighthouse, which was built from local limestone in 1859 to guide ships through the rough waters of Bass Strait. You'll be walking through the Mornington Peninsula National Park, part of the traditional lands of the Boon Wurrung people. The track leads you to Gunnamatta Beach, famous as one of Victoria's best surf beaches due to its high waves and strong rips.
