Nestled not far from Melbourne, Toolangi State Forest is a favourite destination for 4WD enthusiasts and campers looking to escape into nature without travelling too far. Known for its towering mountain ash forests, cool climate, and winding tracks, the area offers a great mix of scenic drives and more challenging off-road sections. Whether you’re heading out for a day trip or a weekend away, Toolangi provides a peaceful bush setting with plenty to explore.
The forest features a network of tracks suitable for a range of experience levels, along with a number of camping spots scattered throughout the area. It’s also popular for its walking trails, waterfalls, and picnic areas, making it a great option for families and groups with different interests. Conditions can change quickly depending on the weather, so it’s always worth checking track conditions before heading out, but that’s all part of the adventure that keeps people coming back.
Towns around the Forest
Toolangi
- Singing Gardens of C. J. Dennis
- Toolangi Recreation Reserve
- Toolangi Sculpture Trail
- Toolangi State Forest
- Tanglefoot Loop
- Myrtle Gully Circuit
- Wirrawilla Rainforest Walk
- Kalatha Giant Tree Walk
- Toolangi Forest Discovery Centre
- Yea River Walk
Healesville
- Healesville Sanctuary
- Historic Walk
- Maroondah Reservoir Park
- Badger Weir Park
Kinglake
- Bollygum Playground
- Kinglake National Park
- Masons Falls Picnic Area
Four Wheel Driving
Four wheel driving in Toolangi State Forest is one of the most accessible and rewarding offroad experiences close to Melbourne. Located just over an hour from the city, the forest offers a wide network of unsealed tracks that wind through towering mountain ash trees, dense bushland, and scenic ridgelines. From gentle forest roads to more challenging climbs, the area caters to a wide range of drivers, making it a popular destination for both beginners looking to build confidence and experienced drivers wanting a quick day trip.
The tracks in Toolangi vary greatly depending on weather and conditions, with terrain including mud, rocks, steep hills, and occasional water crossings. Easier tracks such as Lyndalls Track and Blowhard Road are great for those starting out, while more difficult options like Rocky Track and Aeroplane Track can provide a more technical challenge. After rain, many tracks become slippery and boggy, adding to the adventure but also requiring proper preparation and recovery gear. With its mix of driving conditions, natural beauty, and close proximity to nearby towns and campsites, Toolangi State Forest remains a favourite spot for 4WD enthusiasts looking to get off the beaten track.
Map
- Toolangi – Black Range Forest Activities Map by Rooftop
Websites
- Toolangi State Park: https://www.visityarravalley.com.au/products/toolangi-state-park
- Your guide to Toolangi State Forest: https://www.exploreoutdoors.vic.gov.au/where-to-start/news/news-stories/a-guide-to-toolangi-state-forest
- Toolangi: https://www.greatforestnationalpark.com.au/destination/toolangi/
- Toolangi Forest Discovery Centre: https://toolangicastellahistory.org.au/toolangi-forest-discovery-centre/
- Best trails in Toolangi State Forest: https://www.alltrails.com/parks/australia/victoria/toolangi-state-forest
- Toolangi Sculpture Trail: https://www.exploreoutdoors.vic.gov.au/activities/walking-in-victoria/toolangi-sculpture-trail
- Kinglake, VIC: https://www.aussietowns.com.au/town/kinglake-vic
- Healesville, VIC: https://www.aussietowns.com.au/town/healesville-vic
- The Singing Gardens of C. J. Dennis & Tearooms: https://thesinginggardens.com.au/
- Toolangi: https://www.visityarravalley.com.au/discover/yarra-valley/toolangi
- Visit the Toolangi: https://wildlifetours.com.au/blog/yarra-valley/visit-the-toolangi/
- Explore Toolangi: https://murrindindiguide.com.au/articles/explore-toolangi/
- Kalatha Giant Tree Walk: https://www.exploreoutdoors.vic.gov.au/activities/walking-in-victoria/kalatha-giant-tree-walk
- Toolangi – Yea River Walk: https://www.melbourneplaygrounds.com.au/toolangi-yea-river-walk
- Toolangi – Black Range Map: https://hemamaps.com/products/toolangi-black-range-map
- The Best 4WD Tracks in Victoria: Adventure-Ready Routes for Every Driver: https://www.club4x4.com.au/blog/best-4wd-tracks-victoria/
- Toolangi Sculpture Trail (Toolangi): https://www.melbourneplaygrounds.com.au/toolangi-sculpture-trail-toolangi
- Best forest trails in Toolangi State Forest: https://www.alltrails.com/parks/australia/victoria/toolangi-state-forest/forest
- Walks in Toolangi State Forest: https://www.trailnavigator.com.au/vic/state-forests/toolangi-wombat-state-forest
- Best 4WD tracks near Melbourne: complete off-road guide: https://www.camplify.com.au/blog/five-best-off-road-trips-melbourne