The Dandenong's Pixie Waltz

Step into a Tolkien-inspired wonderland as you traverse the lush, moss-dappled trails of the Dandenongs. Towering mountain ash trees and ancient Gondwana ferns create an enchanted forest perfect for a 16.5 km point-to-point hike. This event is both a scenic adventure and ideal training for the December overnight hike in the Victorian Alps — challenging enough to build stamina, but not technically demanding.

Starting at Upper Ferntree Gully Railway Station and finishing at the Mt Dandenong Hotel in Olinda, this Grade 4 (Medium to Hard) walk features 967 metres of ascent and 588 metres of descent — with plenty of gentle climbs and descents to keep your pace steady. Allow at least six hours to complete the hike. You’ll pass One Tree Hill and the romantic Doongalla Picnic Ground, set beside a historic homestead and tucked into English-style gardens. Keep an eye out for the friendly local hillbillies — if you catch one in the right mood, they’ll spin you a yarn about the region’s past.

At the end of your trek, unwind at the Mt Dandenong Hotel with a well-earned beverage before catching the #688 bus back to either Croydon or Belgrave (and onward to Flinders Street). Buses run hourly on weekends — check the schedule for your preferred return window.

Meeting Point: 9:20 am at Railway Ave, top of the northern exit ramp of Upper Ferntree Gully Railway Station. (An earlier start time may be considered.)

Getting There: Take the 8:06 am Lilydale line from Flinders Street, change at Ringwood to the Belgrave line — arriving at Upper Ferntree Gully at 9:15 am.

What to Bring: Pack lunch, snacks, and two litres of water. Wear comfortable walking footwear and dress in layers — the Dandenongs are often cooler than central Melbourne. Don’t forget a waterproof layer if rain is in the forecast.

Leader: RogerH. For questions, email LeaderRogerH@nomads.org.au (members can find contact details in the Members section).

Booking: Register by Friday, 2 October. Click "Get Tickets" to secure your spot — spots are limited and this walk is currently full. Unsure if you’ve already booked? Head to View my bookings.

Further Info: TrailHiking.com has a detailed page at The Dandenong's Pixie Waltz.