The best dog-friendly scenic walks in Geelong and The Bellarine
Let’s face it, our four-legged besties have carried us through a lot of hard times in the last year. It’s time for us to pay it forward by rewarding them with a beautiful walk in nature where they can sniff and explore to their little heart’s content. Grab your leads, walking shoes and yell “walkies!” because here are some of our favourite dog-friendly walks in Geelong and the Bellarine.
You Yangs - East-West walk
Time frame: 2 hours
Grade: Easy to moderate
This beautiful bush trail promises spectacular views and lookouts. The hike circumnavigates Flinders Peak which is the highest summit in the You Yangs so 360 panoramic views are guaranteed. Your four-legged buddies are welcome but must be on a lead at all times. Note: You may encounter steep inclines every so often but it is otherwise an easy, scenic walk.
Barwon Heads to Ocean Grove Loop
Time Frame: 45 Minutes
Grade: Easy
If it’s coastal views you prefer, then the Ocean Grove Beach to Barwon Heads loop will not disappoint. This easy, low-impact stroll is entirely flat (easy on the paws) and offers brilliant sea views. Hot tip: Park at the 5th carpark along Barwon Heads – Ocean Grove Road and head toward the beach via the stairs until you reach Barwon Heads bridge.
Bellarine Rail Trail
Time Frame: 8-9 hours (but you can stop whenever you want)
Grade: Moderate
This 35km trail will see you and your four-legged buddy come into contact with fully operational vintage trains (so keep your pups on a lead). It takes 8 hours to complete the whole trail, but honestly, just go as far as you would like and double back once you’re ready for a post-walk snack. The trail starts from old Drysdale railway station and concludes at the Bellarine Peninsula Railway.
The Begola Wetlands
Time Frame: Depends on the track
Grade: Easy
This gorgeous nature reserve is packed with quality walking tracks and stunning wildlife to observe such as native birds and frogs. And as such, your four-legged buddies will have to remain on the leash at all times. With Ocean Grove beach nearby, you’ll be soothed by the sound of waves gently lapping the shore as you casually stroll through lush wetlands. Doesn’t get better than that!
Kingston Park
Time Frame: N/A
Grade: Easy
Situated in Ocean Grove, Kingston Park is perfect for those looking for calm. With plenty of off-leash areas for your canine bestie to run free and wild, you can totally make an afternoon of it here. Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy the sunshine with some snacks and a good book.
