Mount Macedon, Victoria, Australia
Difficulty: Moderate
Welcome to the first instalment of my new series exploring the best dog-friendly hikes in Victoria! Today, Megan, Yuki (our adventure pup), and I are taking you along for our recent trek on the Mount Towrong Short Loop, nestled in the picturesque Macedon Ranges. This trail had a little bit of everything—steep climbs, dense bushland, wide-open forest roads, and even an unexpected detour (both on the trail and off). Let’s dive in!
Starting the Adventure
The hike begins on Anzac Road, where the Mount Towrong Walking Track kicks off with a steep ascent. Yuki wasted no time showing off her endless energy, bounding ahead and leaving Megan and me behind. Thankfully, we had her on the Roam Wilder Long Line, so she could safely explore to her heart’s content while we tried to keep up.
Those first 15 minutes were a bit of a workout but as we reached the top, the stunning views of the Macedon region made it all worthwhile. The panoramic scene stretched out before us, the mountain directly opposite us is the site of the Mount Macedon Memorial Cross—a beautiful reminder of the area’s rich history.
Into the Woods
Once we caught our breath and snapped a few photos, the trail transitioned into a dense forest track. This section with—towering trees, vibrant green ferns, and fluttering butterflies made it feel like we’d wandered into a fairytale.
Eventually, the forest path opened up into a wider forest road. This was a welcome change. Yuki loved having more space to roam, and Megan and I enjoyed walking side by side instead of single file.
A Muddy Detour
Now, here’s a pro tip: if you see a small lake on the map and your dog loves water as much as Yuki does, think twice about taking a detour! The lake turned out to be more of a mud pit, and while Yuki had an absolute blast splashing around, she emerged looking like she’d been dipped in chocolate. Lesson learned.
A Key Mystery
As we neared the end of the trail, we came across a Mitsubishi car key lying in the middle of the track. Megan and I decided to play detective, bringing it back to the parking area to test it on the nearby cars. I began clicking the unlock button and sure enough the first car we tried opened! We weren’t too sure what to do as the owner of the car wasn’t around. But just as we were about to call the Police, a woman came down the track obviously looking for something. She couldn’t believe it when we handed her back the keys!
Post-Hike Treats
By the end of the hike, Megan and I were starving, so we stopped by the Mount Macedon Trading Post. This dog-friendly gem served up an amazing sausage roll and quiche 10/10 would recommend.
Final Thoughts
This hike had such a great mix of scenery, from rocky climbs to lush forest paths. The trail was also nice and quiet; we only crossed paths with a handful of other people, which added to its peaceful vibe.
If you’re looking for a dog-friendly hike with a bit of everything, the Mount Towrong Short Loop is a fantastic choice. Just don’t forget sturdy hiking shoes—this trail can be muddy even in summer!
Stay tuned for more dog-friendly adventures. Megan, Yuki, and I are just getting started. Happy hiking! 🐾
