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While we're big fans of Melbourne’s suburban gum trees – there's just something in their gentle strength amidst the human-made structures of the city – but if you like your trees a little bit bigger, read on. Hiding in the Yarra State Forest, the Ada Tree Rainforest Walk leads you through a fairytale landscape of towering tree ferns, moss-covered myrtle beech and soaring mountain ash before revealing one of Victoria's greatest natural wonders: the mighty Ada Tree. Estimated to be more than 300 years old and stretching 76 metres into the canopy, this forest giant is one of the largest flowering trees on Earth.
Where is the Ada Tree Rainforest Walk?
Hidden deep within the lush Yarra State Forest, the Ada Tree Rainforest Walk sits about a two-hour drive east of Melbourne, near the tiny towns of Powelltown, Noojee and Warburton.
What can you see on the Ada Tree Rainforest Walk?
The star of the show is, unsurprisingly, the Ada Tree itself: a colossal mountain ash estimated to be more than 300 years old. Standing 76 metres tall with a staggering 15-metre circumference, it's one of Victoria's largest trees and among the world's biggest known flowering trees. But the journey to see this leafy giant is just as magical as the destination. The trail weaves through cool temperate rainforest filled with towering tree ferns, ancient myrtle beech, sassafras and soaring eucalypts before arriving at a viewing deck where you can stop and properly appreciate the Ada Tree herself. Keep your ears open for lyrebirds while you're there, too.
How long is the Ada Tree Rainforest Walk?
The loop walk is roughly 3.2-3.6 kilometres return and takes around 90 minutes to complete. It's an undulating Grade 3 bushwalk with some natural steps and uneven sections, making it pretty achievable for most walkers with a reasonable level of fitness.
How do you get to the Ada Tree Rainforest Walk?
The walking track is around a two-hour drive east of Melbourne, making it a pretty easy (and very beautiful) day trip. The most straightforward route is via the M3/EastLink, following signs through Warburton and Powelltown before turning onto Big Pats Creek Road and then Ada Tree Track, where you'll find the trailhead and a small car park. The final stretch is on an unsealed gravel road, but it's generally suitable for two-wheel-drive vehicles in good conditions. There's no public transport to the walk itself, so driving is your best bet – and while you're in the area, it's worth making a day of it with a stop in Warburton for coffee or lunch before heading home.
When's the best time to visit the Ada Tree Rainforest Walk?
There's no bad time to wander beneath these towering giants, but autumn and spring are especially beautiful – when cool temperatures make walking comfy and the rainforest feels particularly vibrant. Winter adds an extra layer of atmosphere, with mist floating through the ferns and moss-covered trees giving big fairytale energy. Arriving early in the morning is your best bet if you're hoping to soak up the serenity before other hikers arrive.
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