If you’re after a hike that feels far from the city but is still easy to reach, the Myrtle Gully Circuit in Toolangi is a great choice. It’s a 1 hour 30 minute drive from Melbourne’s CBD with plenty of parking available. The 8km circuit offers a wonderful escape into dense rainforest, tall trees and beautiful gullies. It’s a trail that encourages you to forget about technology and life’s challenges, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.
A Glimpse into History
In the early 1900s, the forest served as a major route for timber workers who harvested the tall Mountain Ash trees that dominate the region. These trees, among the tallest flowering plants in the world, shaped the forest as well as the surrounding communities. As you walk the Myrtle Gully Circuit today, you can easily imagine the history beneath your feet, with paths carved by timber workers long before hikers began using them.
The Myrtle Gully Circuit
The Myrtle Gully Circuit starts from the Wirrawilla Rainforest car park, which has plenty of parking. The trail is around 8km long and takes up to three hours to finish, depending on how often you stop to enjoy the scenery (which you’ll want to do frequently).
The path winds through green gullies, with small streams crossing it and moss and ferns lining the sides. Towering Mountain Ash and Manna Gums loom overhead, creating a canopy that streams light onto the trail and gives the forest a magical feel. When hiking the circuit in July, the track was especially muddy, with several fallen trees to climb over. This added a sense of adventure but also highlighted the need for proper gear. Hiking boots are essential, and gaiters are highly recommended to keep leeches and water out.
Mud, Trees, and a Touch of Wildness
Unlike many polished trails, the Myrtle Gully Circuit keeps you alert. It’s a hike that allows you to truly get lost in the moment. You can’t help but feel connected to the untouched beauty of the forest, with the only sounds being trickling water, falling trees! and the occasional call of a lyrebird.
A Rewarding Extension
After completing the main circuit and returning to the car park, don’t rush off! Next to the start (and finish) of the Myrtle Gully Circuit is the Wirrawilla Rainforest Walk, a short 1km boardwalk that gives another view of this remarkable forest. It’s an easy stroll; flat, accessible, and perfect if you want to relax after the longer hike. The boardwalk flows through dense myrtle beech and tree fern groves. Because it’s so close, it feels like a natural addition to your day.
The Myrtle Gully Circuit is a hike that feels both challenging and refreshing. It’s long enough to give you a solid day out in the bush, but not so demanding that it becomes overwhelming. The mud, fallen trees (and even the leeches!) are all part of the experience; reminders that this is a vibrant and ruggedly beautiful forest that doesn’t make things easy for us.
One of the best things about the Myrtle Gully Circuit is how few people you’ll see compared to busier trails near Melbourne. The feeling of solitude is refreshing. It’s just you, the towering trees, and the cool mountain air. It’s a hike that really restores perspective.
If you’re looking for a hike that combines history, wild beauty, and a bit of grit, the Myrtle Gully is highly recommended. Just remember to bring your hiking boots, sense of adventure, and a change of socks for the drive home!
Plan your hike with the Myrtle Gully Circuit trail map and guide
on Trail Navigator.