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1000 Steps

1000 Steps

Located within the Dandenong Ranges National Park, the 1000 Steps Kokoda Walk is a unique and renowned tourist spot in the Dandenong Ranges.

The 1000 Steps boasts the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk, a popular walking trail in the area. Nicely maintained by rangers, the Kokoda Track is a beautiful walking track with adjacent forested areas, bushlands and various scenic points. Whilst visiting the steps, you will get a small glimpse into the physical effort experienced by the Australian soldiers during 1942.

1000 Steps Kokoda Track Walk, Address & Distance Map, Dandenongs

As the name suggests, the 1000 Steps includes stone steps that lead to the popular One Tree Hill; which starts at the cafe and leads up the top of the mountain.

Those who would like to challenge themselves by completing the 1000 Steps should wear appropriate footwear (runners or hiking shoes) and should have a moderate level of fitness. Many people come to this attraction to test and improve their fitness, and thankfully there are a number of shady rest stops along the way for those who need to catch their breath. Those climbing the 1000 Steps should make sure to bring your own bottle of water as there are no water fountains on the trail.

Apart from the amazing experience of the trail itself, you can also enjoy the area’s scenic spots, beautiful parklands and numerous viewpoints as you traverse this course near Mt. Dandenong.

Pick up a map before you head out on this challenging trail and check out the many other walking tracks throughout the Dandenong Ranges. As the 1000 Steps is located within the Dandenong Ranges National Park, please note that dogs are not permitted.

If you are coming from the city using public transport, catch a train on the Belgrave Line and get off at the ‘Upper Ferntree Gully” station. From there it is just an 800m walk east along Burwood Highway to reach the southern end of the carpark – around 500m extra to get up to the cafe and the start of the steps.

Depending on your fitness, the steps can take between 30 minutes to 1.5hrs to complete the return trip. Many people walk up the steps, but those who are a little fitter may run. So go at your own pace and enjoy the challenge!

About the author

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Michael Jones

Michael created and runs the Dandenong Ranges Point website, as well as the Holiday Point travel brand that incorporates a network of 16 location based travel information and attraction websites around Australia, Asia, and around the world.

With 25+ years of online experience and a passion for travel (having lived in Melbourne most of his life and has visited the Dandenong Ranges many times), Michael not only researches and writes content for the website, he also tinkers behind the scenes with the website functionality & design.

Please reach out if you have any questions or suggestions.

181 Comments

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  • Ca n you run up n down?There are signs that state no running. My friend ran up n down and hurt himself. Signs should state at own risk. Just a suggestion for disclaimer for government. Thanks

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Kerry,

      There is already signage at the 1000 steps that says no running. If people don’t heed the warning, they do so at your own risk. Not sure an additional sign would change anything if people choose to ignore it.

      In any event, the stairs are quite high and can be uneven, so I wouldn’t recommend running.

      Enjoy the trek!

      Best regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Tom,

      The car parking is safe there. However you are visiting a National Park, so any inclement weather may bring down branches unexpectedly. Obviously I cant offer guarantees, but if you are concerned about your car, then make sure to avoid parking under any large trees.

      Have a wonderful time at the 1000 Steps!
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Heather,

      I haven’t heard any announcements about the 1000 Steps closing. Parks Victoria typically make any announcements online before any works commence, so I don’t believe anything is scheduled for the near future.

      Have a great time in the Dandenong Ranges!
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

  • Hi, is there a running track up-hill around the area (other that the 1000 steps) that goes for 15km or more?
    Either sealed or non-sealed roads.
    If so, is it safe to run on the sealed-roads around the area at early hours on weekends?
    Thanks

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Sergio,

      The roads are very busy and windy around the Dandenong Ranges, so I wouldn’t recommend running along those roads.

      I suggest you check some of the online blogs for suggestions of running tracks, our website isn’t that detailed in terms of specific hiking trails and ‘off the beaten track’ activities, as we concentrate more on the larger attractions and events in the Dandenong Ranges.

      Best regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Charlotte,

      I have absolutely no idea how many people go to the 1000 Steps each day. It would vary significantly, with weekends being the busiest period. Not sure if Parks Victoria keep statistics on this type of thing, as it would be hard to measure. Being a nature trail, they would have to have a person standing there to physically count every person I would imagine. Get in touch with Parks Victoria if you need further info.

      Best regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Connie,

      There are around 50 spots at the base of the steps, but these can fill quickly. I have found that it is easier to park at the top of One Tree Hill then start from the top of the steps, walk down to the bottom then climb back up again. There are a number of parking spots at the top that people don’t seem to use.

      Have a great time climbing the 1000 Steps!
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

  • Hi,
    I plan to visit the 1000 Steps next week with my friends but we are worried about the safety as it is the first time we visit. Could you please tell me if there is any rangers or officials that we can contact in case we have an accident or encounter any dangerous animals?
    Thanks

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Cynthia,

      This is a well worn track with many walkers/runners using it daily. There is no ranger on site to supervise the climb and I very much doubt you will come across any dangerous animals, its still far too cold for snakes. You can contact Parks Victoria on 13 19 63 if you have any concerns.

      Regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Stephanie,

      Yes, there are BBQ facilities at the top of the 1000 Steps at One Tree Hill. And no, you don’t have to climb to the top to access the BBQs! You can drive up to the top and there a carpark up there.

      The picnic area is well-equipped with several picnic tables, two picnic shelters, free electric barbeques, plenty of car parking, toilets and grassy areas for setting up a picnic blanket.

      Have a great time!
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Cate,

      You can find instructions on how to get to the 1000 Steps by public transport in our post:
      “If you are coming from the city using public transport, catch a train on the Belgrave Line and get off at the “Upper Ferntree Gully” station. From there it is just a 800m walk east along Burwood Highway to reach the southern end of the carpark – around 500m extra to get up to the cafe and the start of the steps.”

      Have a great time in the Dandenong Ranges!

      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Erica,

      Yes I do. There are usually a number of people around, particularly if you are going this week during the school holidays. There is also a cafe on site and many people picnic at the bottom.

      Make your own judgement, but I would not have any hesitation to do it on my own.

      Kind regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Kerri,

      I have seen kids going up and down the 1000 Steps before, so it is certainly doable. Some kids with boundless energy seemed to bounce up the stairs easier than many of the adults!

      Just note however that it is a challenging climb due to the length and many of the steps are uneven. So little legs may have trouble on a few of the larger steps.

      But the track is not dangerous in any way, it just has a lot of steps. They might just need to take their time and stop for a few breaks, there are places where you can catch your breath along the way.

      But overall, if your kids are up for it, I think it is a great activity for families to enjoy together! Go for it!

      Have a great time in the Dandenong Ranges!
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Sofie,

      The Lyrebird Track is very steep and can be very slippery. You can navigate it with a pram if you wish, but it will be 2.5kms of climbing up a steep slope with very little in terms of grip, this is why some steps were installed right next to the path. I wouldn’t attempt it with a pram, but it is a matter for you.

      Enjoy the 1000 Steps and the Dandenong Ranges!

      Kind regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Alex,

      Parks Victoria confirmed that the track has reopened. The local rangers worked around the clock to clear a path through a 200 year old tree that fell over the pathway.

      Have a great time at the 1000 Steps and Dandenong Ranges!

      Kind regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

  • Hi, I heard that after the hike of the 1000 Steps, there is a bus available to take you up to the peak of Mount Dandenong where there are food and souvenirs available. Is this true?

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Michelle,

      The 1000 Steps and Mt Dandenong are about 13kms apart. In order to get between the two attractions, you will need to walk back down from the 1000 Steps (this is a walking trail, no bus access) and walk to the public bus stop near the Upper Ferntree Gully Train Station. I am not aware of any shuttle bus that runs between the two attractions.

      The station is a 1km walk from the 1000 Steps car park. You will need to catch a #688 Croydon Bus. The trip will take around 30 minutes. Alight at Wombat Road and walk 850 metres to the Sky High Restaurant.

      Have a great time in the Dandenong Ranges!

      Kind regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

  • Not a question but a comment .
    I’ve just been back to the 1000 steps after a couple of months break and just wanted to praise your staff for the great job they’ve done repairing and restoring the walk . Previously there was a lot of storm damage evident such as broken rails , large puddles and fallen branches , now all fixed!
    Very impressed and can’t wait to walk it again !

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Lynda,

      You can find instructions on how to get to the 1000 Steps by public transport in our post:
      “If you are coming from the city using public transport, catch a train on the Belgrave Line and get off at the “Upper Ferntree Gully” station. From there it is just a 800m walk east along Burwood Highway to reach the southern end of the carpark – around 500m extra to get up to the cafe and the start of the steps.”

      Have a great time in the Dandenong Ranges!

      Kind regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

  • Any chance there could be more police patrols to fine the irresponsible drivers who park in the non parking areas that are signposted? On Sunday’s and public holidays (today) especially are very dangerous when we came round the bend and a car was/did park illegally. Very dangerous.

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Roger,

      No, you do not need to advise anyone. The 1000 Steps climb and park is in the Dandenong National Ranges which is fully open to the public.

      Just check the CFA website for current weather conditions before you go, as February can often have extreme conditions of which you should be aware.

      Have a great time at the 1000 Steps!

      Kind regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

  • Hi, I will travel to the 1000 steps Mt. Dandenong on 3/1. Will there be any maintenance happening on the day?

    Do I need to book the at all or just walk in?

    Thank you

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Ian,

      We have tried using a few online tools to calculate the elevation in the past, but they didn’t seem accurate or give us a decent answer.

      However using a topography map, it looks like the top at One Tree sits at around 490 metres and the car park sits around 170 metres.

      So our estimation is that the climb is about 320 metres in elevation.

      Regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

  • Hi, so just confirming it is free to do the 1000 steps? Also is there a café or restaurant at the top once you’re finished or is it only at the bottom once you come back down?
    Cheers :)
    Jess

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Jess,

      The cafe is at the base of the 1000 Steps. There is a picnic spot at top of the climb, but all the other facilities are at the bottom.

      It is absolutely free to climb the 1000 Steps. Just note that they are performing maintenance and the steps wont be open until after 2 December 2016.

      Best regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

  • Hi there,

    I visit the steps all the time but am unfamiliar with the tracks and their names. Is the track that is parallel to the steps but leads to the same destination open during these renovation dates? Or is that one closed too?

    Thanks!

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Marcie,

      I think you are referring to the Lyrebird Track. Yes, walkers will still be able to access the summit of One Tree Hill from the Ferntree Gully picnic ground via Lyrebird Track and return to the picnic ground via Link Track, Belview Terrace and School Track.

      Best regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Daniel,

      Yes, you are correct. Parks Victoria will temporarily close the 1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk in the Dandenong Ranges National Park for three weeks from Monday 14th November 2016 for upgrade and maintenance works.

      Walkers will still be able to access the summit of One Tree Hill from the Ferntree Gully picnic ground via Lyrebird Track and return to the picnic ground via Link Track, Belview Terrace and School Track.

      Best regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

  • Hi there,

    We were planning on doing 1000 steps on Saturday 12th November 2016 however a friend mentioned it might be closed to due maintenance? Can you please confirm whether it will be open?

    Thanks in advance! :)

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Kristine,

      You are in luck, the steps don’t close until Monday 14th.

      Parks Victoria will temporarily close the 1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk in the Dandenong Ranges National Park for three weeks from Monday 14th November 2016 for upgrade and maintenance works.

      So Saturday or Sunday will be your last opportunity until December to walk the track. Have a great time!
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Adele,

      Parks Victoria will temporarily close the 1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk in the Dandenong Ranges National Park for three weeks from Monday 14th November 2016 to 2 December 2016 for upgrade and maintenance works.

      Walkers will still be able to access the summit of One Tree Hill from the Ferntree Gully picnic ground via Lyrebird Track and return to the picnic ground via Link Track, Belview Terrace and School Track.

      Regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Terry,

      We have tried using a few online tools to calculate the elevation in the past, but they didn’t seem accurate or give us a decent answer.

      However using a topography map, it looks like the top at One Tree sits at around 490 metres and the car park sits around 170 metres.

      So our estimation is that the climb is about 320 metres in elevation.

      Regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Sebastian,

      The answer is contained in the text of the post:
      “If you are coming from the city using public transport, catch a train on the Belgrave Line and get off at the “Upper Ferntree Gully” station. From there it is just a 800m walk east along Burwood Highway to reach the southern end of the carpark – around 500m extra to get up to the cafe and the start of the steps.”

      Regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Rhiana,

      The 1000 steps is open every day, even when raining. There were some closures to the entrance over the weekend as some trees had fallen during some extreme wind, but these appear to have now been cleared.

      Enjoy your day at the 1000 Steps! Make sure to wear sturdy shoes as the steps can be a little slippery in wet weather.

      Regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Camilla,

      Here is the current park update from Parks Victoria which was updated on the 8th of October 2016:

      “Areas of the Dandenong Ranges National Park and Silvan Reservoir Park remain closed following damaging winds. The areas will reopened as soon as tree risk inspections are complete. This includes One Tree Hill, Doongalla, Valley, Eagles Nest, Sherbrooke and O’Donohues picnic grounds, Ferntree Gully Picnic Ground (including 1000 Steps), Silvan Reservoir Park and Kalorama Park. Grants Picnic Ground south end is closed but the bird feeding, souvenir shop, restaurant and the rest of the picnic ground will be open.”

      Regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Steph,

      The Parks Victoria website states that “dogs and other pets are not permitted.” However I have found some other information which states “Dogs are permitted in national parks for specific purposes. These include: Dogs which assist disabled people with their disability are permitted in all parks and reserves, with the exception of Wilderness Parks and areas closed to the public.”

      I recommend you contact Parks Victoria on Phone: 131 963 or drop them an email at [email protected] to confirm that service dogs are permitted in Dandenong Ranges National Park.

      Regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

  • Hi was wondering if there are lockers here to store a suitcase as I’m travelling by public transport and won’t be going to the hotel until after I do the 1000 steps walk. Thanks

    Reply to this comment

  • Hi, I was just wondering, as it is tourist attraction, what are the most common was that people get here? I will be staying in the city, are there any affordable methods of transport to get to the ranges? Kind Regards, Helen

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Helen, thanks for contacting us.

      Travelling by car is certainly the easiest and fastest way to get to the ranges. The roads are well signed and it will take around 40-50 minutes from the CBD. There is plenty of parking and the roads are easy to navigate. It is a lovely drive once you get out of the city, and many attractions are within close driving distance.

      However, public transport is available from the Melbourne CBD to the 1000 Steps if you don’t wish to hire a car. I do note however, that it will take approximately 1 hour 30 minutes with train + a little walking.

      Go to Flinders Street Station and catch a train on the “Belgrave” Line (I have attached a link of the stops here). You will travel for about 60 minutes. Get off at “Upper Ferntree Gully” station.

      From there, it is just an 800m walk east along Burwood Highway to reach the southern end of the carpark – around 500m extra to get up to the cafe and the start of the 1000 Steps.

      If you are looking for someone to do the driving for you, I have attached a link to a couple of tours that service the Dandenong Ranges. Please note that I am not aware of any tours that include the 1000 Steps: Puffing Billy & Dandenong Ranges Tour from Melbourne

      Enjoy your time in the Dandenong Ranges!

      Regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Johanna,

      Unfortunately, you will have to leave your furry friend at home. As stated in our post: “As the 1000 Steps is located within the Dandenong Ranges National Park, please note that dogs are not permitted.”

      Regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

  • Hi, tried to go to 1000 steps today but the park was closed? Just wondering why there was no notice about it on the website? Drove an hour to get here and couldn’t even go in.

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Katelin,

      The 1000 Steps remains open, Parks Victoria are only completing upgrades to the carpark between 11-15 April.

      The official website states: “Parks Victoria will temporarily close the Ferntree Gully picnic ground car park which services the 1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk in the Dandenong Ranges National Park for asphalt works from Monday 11 April until Friday 15 April 2016. The popular 1000 steps walk will remain open to the public during the works which will include repairs to pot holes, asphalting and new line marking.”

      Regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

        • Hi Sophal,

          I have taken some information form the Parks Victoria website which should answer your questions:

          “Created in the early 1900s, the 1000 Steps Walk was originally made from the trunks of tree ferns laid along the wetter areas of the track to make
          the climb a little easier. These were replaced by wooden palings before the more permanent concrete steps were installed in 1950. The Victorian veterans of the Kokoda campaign adopted this park as their memorial site in 1998. The similarity of the walk to the first 100 metres of the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea resulted in the establishment of the 14 plaques along the walk, dedicated to those Australian Military Forces who fought and died on Kokoda. The 1000 steps represent the “Golden Staircase” a name given by Australian soldiers to the 2000 steps cut by the Australian Army Engineers and others into the track between Uberi and Imita Ridge. The ‘Kokoda Track Memorial Walk’ represents an area of historical significance and every effort is undertaken to retain this heritage.”

          I hope this assists in your understanding of this important local attraction.

          Regards,
          Jess

    • Hi Holly,

      The 1000 Steps will be open on ANZAC Day.

      The 1000 Steps are open every day, except for times when Parks Victoria deems it unsafe due to weather conditions (such as bushfire) and closes parts of the National Park.

      Enjoy your day at the 1000 Steps!

      Regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Wass,

      The 1000 Steps is in a National Park in Australia, so yes, there is always the possibility of coming across a snake or a spider.

      However, as we are coming into the cooler months and there is a lot of foot traffic on the 1000 Steps, I very much doubt you would come across any dangerous snakes or spiders here.

      If you are concerned, perhaps make contact with Parks Vic for further information.

      Regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Viviana,

      There are so many to choose from in Victoria. Depending on what you are after, I have provided a list from which you can start your search to find the best location to suit you.

      These campgrounds have amenities such as toilets, water, some have showers and all are in beautiful parks:
      Tidal River, Wilsons Promontory National Park
      Mount Eccles National Park
      Lake Catani, Mount Buffalo National Park
      Buchan Caves Reserve
      Lakeside Campground, Lake Eildon National Park
      Upper Yarra Reservoir Park

      If you enjoy being a little closer to nature with drop toilets and few other facilities, then check out these locations:
      Pink Lakes, Murray Sunset National Park
      Hattah-Kulkyne National Park
      Boar Gully, Brisbane Ranges
      Great Otway National Park

      All the best for your camping trip in Victoria!

      Regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Sharon,

      Yes the 1000 Steps track is open tomorrow (Good Friday).

      Personally, I love the National Rhododendron Gardens which is also open tomorrow. You could also drop by Olinda Falls which is a lovely walk with some beautiful views and is located only around 3kms from the Rhododendron Gardens. FYI, William Ricketts Sanctuary is also located nearby.

      What a lovely way to spend the Easter weekend! There might be some drizzle tomorrow, so dress warmly, but I hope you have a great time in the Dandenong Ranges! Take a picnic, as there are many undercover picnic spots for you to enjoy at each of these locations.

      Regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

  • Hi,
    I read somewhere that it takes 2 hours to complete the trek but that 2hrs means from the start to the of the 1000 steps yes? So it will take another 2hrs to get back to my car or is there an alternative route we can take?
    Thanks

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Sophie,

      The steps are only a short 5 minute walk from the carpark (800 metres). The length of time it takes you to complete the steps will very much depend on your fitness levels.

      I am of a moderate fitness, and it took me 30 minutes to climb the stairs to the top and around 15 mins to get back down. My partner, who is much fitter, completed the climb in 20 minutes and was down in 10.

      I would say allow yourself an hour to an hour and a half to go up and back, including walking to and from the carpark. Stick to the main track.

      Enjoy the climb!

      Regards,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Lisa,

      This seems to be a popular question and has been answered below. I will add the details to the main post.

      But for your quick reference:
      If you are coming from the city using Public transport, it looks like the best train station to get off at is “Upper Ferntree Gully station” on the Belgrave line.

      From there it is just a 800m walk east along Burwood Highway to reach the southern end of the carpark – around 500m extra to get up to the cafe and the start of the steps.

      You would have to check the Public Transport Victoria schedule to see if there are any buses that travel directly from Dandenong to Belgrave. Otherwise from Dandenong, you would have to travel into the city, change at Richmond, and head out again.

      Thanks,
      Jess

      Reply to this comment

  • Hi, do you have a Melways reference for where the car park is for the 1000 steps walk? I have plenty of maps of the walk, but not sure where the walk actually starts (I assume it might be where the carpark is, but where is that?)

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Joyce,

      Thank you for your question.

      The 1000 Steps is a very strenuous 3km climb which can take some people up to 1-1.5 hours to complete. There are a few rest stops along the way, but I would not recommend this climb to pregnant women due to the steep incline and length of the track. Of course this is dependent on each individual’s fitness levels.

      If you are looking for a less strenuous activity, I would recommend visiting the National Rhododendron Gardens or taking the short walk to Sherbrooke Falls. Both locations are easy walks without many steep sections.

      I hope this has been of some assistance to you. We hope you enjoy your trip to the Dandenong Ranges!

      Regards,

      Jess
      Holiday Point

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Fiona,

      Using Google maps, it is apparently 1.5km from the carpark to the top of the steps. Granted the steps aren’t very steep, i would say that it would perhaps take at most 30 minutes to get to the top, and another 30 mins to get back down again (which is obviously going to be easier). So all up, I wouldn’t expect the total trip to be more than an an hour.

      It may also depend on how busy it is at the time, but it took me around 20 minutes at a fast walking pace to get to the top, and that was on a rainy day and walking behind a group.

      Thanks,
      Michael

      Reply to this comment

  • Hi there, was just wondering Is there shower facilities at the ground? Hoping to be able to shower after the 1000 steps as we are heading the the sky high for breakfast afterwards!

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Christopher,

      Looking at the official National Parks map, it doesn’t appear that there are shower facilities available, however there are toilets if you need to get changed.

      Unless you are full on sprinting to the top, it’s much cooler up there compared to Melbourne, so you might not even break a sweat.

      Thanks,
      Michael

      Reply to this comment

      • Hi
        I have just completed the walk to the top of the 1000 steps track. It is a delightful track and well maintained. However, on reaching the top nowhere could I find how high I had climbed.

        There were plenty of signs about the distance I had walked but none stating the height above sea level.

        I feel this is an oversight the national parks board should correct. Can you tell me the height at the top of the track?

        Thank you
        Den

        Reply to this comment

        • Hi Den,

          I have tried using a few online tools to calculate the elevation, but it didn’t seem accurate or give me an answer at all.

          Trying to decipher a confusing topography map for the first time, it looks like the top at One Tree sits at around 490 metres and the car park sits around 170 metres.

          So my estimation is you climbed 320 metres while you are there.

          Hope this helps.

          Thanks,
          Michael

  • Hi
    I would like to visit the 1000 steps aswell as the bird feeding area and was wondering where abouts was the bird feeding area? Also is the bird feeding area far from the 1000 steps

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Kubilay,

      I just did some research, and the bird feeding area you are most likely referring to is located at Grants Picnic Ground, Kallista.

      I have created a map here showing you the way from the 1000 steps to Grants Picnic Ground https://goo.gl/maps/hMuLt, but in terms of distance it’s around 8km and roughly a 12 minute drive away.

      I have also spoke to Parks Victoria and have been told that the 1000 Steps is due to re-open tomorrow (April 1) at 6am, in case you were planning to head up this long weekend.

      Thanks
      Michael

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Estelle,

      Thanks for the heads up. I have check the Parks Victoria website and the renovations aren’t due to start til Tuesday 10 March 2015 and will be closed for 3 weeks. The works are expected to be completed by 31 March 2015 (pending favourable weather and conditions).

      So hopefully all went well today.

      Thanks,
      Michael

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Carly,

      I don’t have kids, so I’m perhaps not the best one to answer this. I have completed the steps myself and it took me around 15 minutes from the start of the steps. There is also the walk from the car park.

      I guess if your kids are into the physical activity, they will have a ball and will appreciate the nature of the area. However, adults that I was with at the time were complaining about having to climb the steps and were out of breath and sweating (they aren’t that bad – they aren’t like house steps)

      If you want to try ensure a pleasurable experience, go in the morning when it is cooler and there is less people around.

      Hope this helps,
      Michael

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Yvette,

      If you are coming from the city using Public transport, it looks like the best train station to get off at is “Upper Ferntree Gully station” on the Belgrave line.

      From there it is just a 800m walk east along Burwood Highway to reach the southern end of the carpark – around 500m extra to get up to the cafe and the start of the steps.

      Thanks
      Michael

      Reply to this comment

  • Listen, to all those who said the track is “easy”, it is extremely strenuous when done right. You’re not meant to take a rest on the track if you want to get fit fast. Sure! Walk at your own pace or even jog it if you’re a fitness fanatic and can handle that. BUT DON’T YOU DARE REST!!!

    If you do get a chance to visit the Kokoda track, feel free to time yourself and share how long it took you to finish the track without taking a rest. Trust me, this will be a great achievement.

    Reply to this comment

    • Hi Simone,

      The trip itself isn’t too strenuous, it isn’t like climbing stairs in a building. You can go at your own pace and rest on the way up.

      I have known people with very little fitness do it multiple times, so I am sure you’ll be fine.

      Just to note: the car park gets busy on weekends, so try get there early to get a park.

      Thanks,
      Michael

      Reply to this comment

    • Hi Simone, it is not strenuous at all. I’m not fit and I managed to get to the top. I’ve also seen mums with baby’s on their back climbing the steps. It may not be challenging enough for the really fit ones. It is only slippery when it’s wet. They’ve made a 2nd set of steps that are easier for getting down.

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What is the 1000 Steps address?
Burwood Hwy & Mt Dandenong Tourist Rd, Upper Ferntree Gully, VIC

Please visit our website for more information on the 1000 Steps.
What are the 1000 Steps opening hours?
6am - 9pm daily (including public holidays)

Please visit our website for more information on the 1000 Steps.
What are the 1000 Steps entry prices?
Free

Please visit our website for more information on the 1000 Steps.
What is the 1000 Steps phone number?
131 963

Please visit our website for more information on the 1000 Steps.
What is the 1000 Steps email address?
[email protected]

Please visit our website for more information on the 1000 Steps.

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