There's a reason why 'going for a walk' is synonymous with relief and restoration. Science continues to connect walking and movement with reduced stress, improved mood, inspiration, and a boost to your body's essential functions.
Our bodies are made to move.
With some of Australia's best green spaces and walking trails, we've put together 10 ways for you to get moving in Victoria's parks.
So, let's hit pause and go for a walk.
1. Start with a guided park walk
Ease into nature with one of our guided walks. With a range of experiences on offer, pick one geared toward your age group, level of experience, location or cultural background. Check in regularly to find out the parks walks on offer.
2. Bring the whole family
Breathe in some fresh air with the whole family. Getting into nature is not only fun but can also be a learning experience for kids and adults alike. Stay safe and choose a walking trail that won't tire out little legs.
3. Recharge with forest therapy and mindfulness walks
Use all your senses to connect with nature on a guided forest therapy walk or mindfulness walk. Leave your worries and distractions behind and feel the mental health benefits that come from connecting with nature in a deeper way.
4. Challenge yourself with a hiking adventure
If you're up for a challenge, why not try one of our spectacular long-distance trails and camp overnight under the stars. If it's rocky mountain ranges, oceans, or alpine meadows you're into, we've got you covered. Choose your distance and tailor the experience to your abilities and time.
5. Walk the dog
Taking our four-legged friends for a walk is a part of daily life for many people. Getting into nature is a great way to exercise your dog and reap the health benefits yourself. So skip the city streets and take your dog for a walk in the park! Not all parks permit dogs, so find the best parks for your pooches to play.
6. All abilities and wheelchair trails
Getting out for a walk can be more complicated if you have limited mobility or use a wheelchair. That's why we've developed a range of accessible walks and resources to inspire you get active and connect with nature. See Parks Victoria's best all-abilities walks with our video series on accessible trails.
7. Climate Watch trail walking
If you're interested in nature and the impacts of a changing climate, download the ClimateWatch app and add any observations along your walks to the app. You'll be helping to provide data that will shape Australia's scientific response to climate change.
8. Find your pram-friendly haven
If you've got a baby or toddler, they'll love the sights and sounds of our beautiful parks. Plus, it's a great way to get out of the house and get moving. Many parks and tracks are suitable for prams, especially across Melbourne. Check out our top 10 recommended walks with a pram.
9. Go local with an urban park
Fancy a lunchtime stroll or a post-work walk? Right across Melbourne and Victoria there are a range of large and smaller parks and reserves waiting to be walked. You don't need a lot of time, or to travel far to get the health kick. Victoria Walks also has a list of local parks to take a walk in.
10. Walk Victoria's national parks
We're blessed with some of Australia's most dramatic landscapes. Whether you love the pristine coast, tall mountains, red deserts or lush rainforests, you can be sure to find a backdrop you'll enjoy in one of Victoria's many national parks.
