Sherbrooke Forest

On the fringe of the Dandenong Ranges, Sherbrooke Forest is a towering realm of mountain ash and tree ferns that feels a world away from Melbourne. This cool temperate rainforest is famous for its resident lyrebirds, whose extraordinary mimicry echoes through the gullies. Whether you're a birdwatcher, a hiker, or simply seeking a serene escape, the forest's mossy trails and cathedral-like canopy offer a quintessential Victorian highlands experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Lyrebird Spotting: Head to the Grants Picnic Ground early morning or late afternoon for the best chance to see superb lyrebirds scratching for insects and performing their mimicked calls.
• Sherbrooke Falls: A short, family-friendly walk through fern gullies leads to this pretty 20m waterfall, especially impressive after rain.
• O'Donohue Picnic Ground: A peaceful spot with free gas barbecues, picnic tables, and easy access to walking trails. The resident crimson rosellas may land on your hand for a seed.
• Mountain Ash Forest Walk: A gentle 1.5km loop through towering mountain ash, the world's tallest flowering trees, with interpretive signs about the ecosystem.
• Kookaburra and Kingfisher Trails: Longer walks (up to 3km) that wind through wet gullies and offer a deeper immersion in the forest's birdlife and ferny understorey.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day (3–4 hours) is ideal to enjoy a walk, picnic, and lyrebird viewing. If you're combining Sherbrooke Forest with a visit to the Dandenong Ranges villages (Sassafras, Olinda) or Puffing Billy Railway, allocate a full day to explore the area without rushing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dandenong Ranges National Park: Walk the 1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk or explore the lush fern gullies of Ferntree Gully.
• Sassafras: A charming village with antique shops, tearooms, and the famous Miss Marple's Tearoom for scones with jam and cream.
• Olinda: Quaint village with galleries, boutiques, and the National Rhododendron Gardens at the top of the range.
• Puffing Billy Railway: Ride the historic steam train through the forests from Belgrave to Lakeside or Gembrook.
• Yarra Valley: Just a 30-minute drive north, this wine region offers cellar doors, gourmet produce, and hot air balloon rides over vineyards.

Please check official sources for current details.