Every October, the Dandenong Ranges Walking Festival in Mt Evelyn, Victoria, transforms the region into a hub for walkers of all levels. Spanning a variety of trails that range from short loops to challenging ascents, the festival invites you to engage with a forest that acts as an active companion—trees lean in with whispering leaves, and streams challenge your pace with rushing currents. The terrain covers distances from 5 to 20 kilometers, with elevation gains varying between 100 to 450 meters, depending on the chosen route. Expect a mix of gravel pathways, well-trodden woodland tracks, and modest hill climbs. The walkways wind through towering mountain ash and fern-filled gullies where sunlight filters like a cautious visitor.

A key highlight is the Emerald Lake Circuit, a 10-kilometer loop with a steady 220-meter elevation gain that rewards hikers with sweeping views of the Yarra Valley. The trail’s surface is mostly firm but can become slippery after rain, so appropriate footwear is essential. For those opting for more of a challenge, the Woori Yallock Track includes steeper inclines and rugged sections, testing both fitness and resolve.

Water sources are scarce along the trails, so carrying at least 1.5 liters per person is prudent. Hydration stations are set up only at central points during festival days, so plan accordingly. Timing your hikes for early morning or late afternoon can help avoid the midday heat and often coincides with wildlife activity—keep eyes peeled for kookaburras and the flight of crimson rosellas flitting through the canopy.

Participant packs handed out at registration provide clear maps and safety guidelines, making navigation straightforward. However, the weather in the ranges can shift quickly; layers are key to staying comfortable. Weather charts show October typically offers mild temperatures but be prepared for sudden drizzles.

The festival not only celebrates foot travel but also emphasizes respect for the environment. Trails are maintained by local volunteers committed to preserving the forest's vigor. Taking care to stay on marked paths both protects delicate undergrowth and keeps hikers safe from unexpected terrain hazards like loose stones or exposed roots.

Camping options are available nearby for those wanting to extend their adventure or simply soak up the area’s vibrant outdoor atmosphere. For families or casual explorers, shorter walks deliver gentle introductions to the ranges’ ecosystem. Seasoned hikers can strategize to bag multiple routes over the festival’s weekend, each trail offering a distinct encounter with the landscape’s rugged calm.

This is an event for walkers willing to move steadily, respect the land, and appreciate the subtle rhythms of nature that pulse through Mt Evelyn’s forests. The Dandenong Ranges Walking Festival challenges and rewards with every step, inviting you to become part of a wilderness that is fiercely itself, communicating through the crunch of leaves and the murmur of distant creeks.