The Eastern Dandenong Ranges Trail starts at the Clematis Puffing Billy Station. The 14.5km trail goes from Emerald through Cockatoo and continues on to Gembrook. Our walk starts in Emerald and goes the other way to Clematis and back again. There's a well made path that roughly follows the line of Belgrave-Gembrook Road and alongside the Puffing Billy track, but below the road with views to the fields, some shade from the trees, plenty of birds and plenty of signs of wildlife in the many wombat burrows.
The walk starts from where the Puffing Billy track crosses Belgrave -Gembrook Rd on the corner of Como St, but we start from Gate 4 at the far end of Memorial Avenue Reserve on the corner of Kilvington Dve and Benson St, following the path up to the main road and the start of the trail.
From here, cross the road and turn left onto the gravel path next to the sign for the trail. Most of the trail is away from the road, but it does cross two side roads and is open to the train tracks, so care should be taken with younger children. Continue walking until you reach the Clematis Station, have a look around at the station and train parts, then head back the way you came.
Just past the station is a small pathway up to the Paradise Valley Hotel. The car park there offers an alternative starting point. A narrow local dirt track continues past the station to Menzies Creek if you want a longer walk.
The tracks are mostly gently sloping, nice and wide, gravel or paved with one slightly steeper section.
Starting Point: The Rotunda at Emerald Station Reserve near the playground
Distance: 4km
Toilets: Near the playground
Dogs: Allowed (On Leash Only)
For your GPS: 15 Kilvington Dr, Emerald
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