Warburton to Mt Donna Buang via the Rainforest Gallery Drive
An easy 30-minute road trip from Lilydale on the Warburton Highway (B380) Warburton has many attractions but one not to miss is the drive to the summit of Mt Donna Buang.
As you pass through the township look for the left hand turn off Mt Donna Buang Rd. The drive to the top is approximately 17 kilometres and the return journey is via the same route.
Mt Donna Buang is a 1250-metre peak and is often covered in snow during winter but a visit at any time of the year is recommended as it has a wonderful Observation Tower with extensive 360-degree views and plenty of walks to enjoy in other seasons. Halfway up the mountain (at the juncture of Mt Donna Buang Rd and the Acheron Way) you'll find the Rainforest Gallery and carpark.
The Rainforest Gallery features an elevated 40-metre-long observation platform which takes you into the rainforest canopy 15 metres above the ground. A 350-metre-long elevated walkway takes you through the rainforest where you will see magnificent 65-metre tall old growth Mountain Ash trees, ancient Myrtle Beech trees (many of which could be up to 300 to 400 years old), ferns, mosses and other plants that make up this damp and diverse rainforest environment.
There are several viewing spots along the walkway where you can pause and enjoy the sounds of Cement Creek flowing past on its journey to the Yarra River. Read about local Indigenous history, flora and fauna on the signboards along the way.
Continue on Mt Donna Buang Rd (take the hairpin turn at Rainforest Gallery and make your way to the summit. There are several well-signed sites to pull over and enjoy the view of the valley! Return the same way.
Towns along the way: Warburton
Distance: approx. Approx. 17 km from Warburton to summit one-way
Time: Approx. 25 minutes
Terrain: Sealed road, some bends and elevation
Note: Both the summit and Ten Mile Carpark have parking, picnic and toilet facilities. There are several walks – just look for the signs
