The park contains the O'Shannassy and Maroondah catchments, which supply a significant portion of Melbourne’s drinking water.
Eucalyptus regnans, the Mountain Ash found here, is the tallest flowering plant species on Earth.
The park is the only place in the world where the Leadbeater's Possum, Victoria’s faunal emblem, exists in the wild.
Mount Donna Buang provides a rare opportunity to see winter snowfall close to a major metropolitan city.
The park's high rainfall and cool temperatures support relict Gondwanan rainforest species.
The historic 1920s-era Redwood Forest at Cement Creek is an exotic plantation located within the park boundary.
The park features evidence of historic timber tramways used during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Yarra Ranges National Park protects the primary water catchment area for Melbourne, spanning over 76,000 hectares of mountain ash forests and cool temperate rainforest. The landscape features deep valleys and rugged peaks, with the highest point at Mount Donna Buang reaching 1,245 metres. The park is home to significant flora, including ancient tree ferns and the world's tallest flowering plants, the Eucalyptus regnans. It serves as a vital habitat for the endangered Leadbeater's Possum and the Helmeted Honeyeater. Visitors utilize an extensive network of walking tracks, ranging from short nature trails to multi-day hiking expeditions. Picnic facilities, including gas BBQs and shelters, are provided at key access points such as Fernshaw and Cambarville. The park remains a crucial segment of the Great Dividing Range ecosystem.
The towering trunks and symmetrical layout of the Cement Creek Redwood Forest.
Check the Parks Victoria website for road closures before departing, as high-altitude routes often close during winter weather.
Mobile phone reception is extremely limited or non-existent in many parts of the park; download offline maps before arrival.
Weather conditions in the ranges can change rapidly; carry windproof and waterproof layers even in summer.
Attempting to drive on unsealed tracks without a 4WD vehicle, and wandering off-trail in the dense rainforest.
Some high-elevation roads may close during winter due to snow and ice; check for seasonal vehicle access restrictions.
Stay on marked trails to protect fragile fern gullies and prevent soil erosion. Take all rubbish with you as there are no bins.
