Dog Friendly Walks & Hikes around Mansfield

Mansfield and the High Country offer a wide range of dog-friendly walks, from gentle town paths to longer bush trails and steep summit climbs. All walks listed here are outside national parks, and dogs must be kept on a lead at all times.

Mobile reception can be patchy once you leave town, so always tell someone where you’re going, carry a charged phone, and download maps in advance.

Important Safety Notes

Snake bandage: Carry a compression snake bandage, particularly in warmer months.
Water: Bring plenty of water for both you and your dog — many trails have no reliable supply.
Leads: Keep dogs on lead to protect wildlife, livestock, and your dog.
Mobile coverage: Expect patchy reception once you leave town.

Café & Older Dogs

Easy, social walks close to town — perfect for gentle strolls, older dogs, and coffee stops.

Mansfield Botanic Park
A beautiful open park with shady trees, flat paths, and open lawns — ideal for relaxed walks.
Distance: Flexible
Difficulty: Very easy
More info: https://www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/things-to-do/parks-and-playgrounds/mansfield-botanic-park

Mansfield Rail Trail (Town Section)
Wide, flat gravel trail suitable for dogs on lead. Start near the station and walk as far as you like.
Distance: Flexible
Difficulty: Very easy
Trail website: https://www.greatvictorianrailtrail.com.au/

Easy Walks

Gentle forest and riverside walks with minimal climbing, suitable for most dogs and families.

Plain Creek Loop
A peaceful loop through tall gums and ferny gullies between Merrijig and Sawmill Settlement.
Distance: Approx. 5 km loop
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Map & GPX: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/australia/victoria/plain-creek-loop

Howqua Hills Historic Trail
A flat riverside walk near Sheepyard Flat, passing Fry’s Hut and historic mining relics.
Distance: 3.5 km one way
Difficulty: Easy
Map & GPX: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/australia/victoria/howqua-hills-historic-walk

Moderate Walks

Longer distances or steady climbs for dogs with reasonable fitness.

Plain Creek Falls (from Carter’s Road)
A scenic forest walk following Plain Creek before climbing gently toward the falls.
Distance: 6–7 km return
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Map & GPX: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/australia/victoria/plain-creek-falls

Carter’s Road to Mirimbah
A longer walk through forest and along creeks linking Carter’s Road with Mirimbah.
Distance: 7–8 km one way
Difficulty: Moderate
Map & GPX: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/australia/victoria/carters-road-to-mirimbah

Hard Walks for Fit Dogs

Steeper climbs and rougher terrain for confident walkers and fit dogs.

Mount Timbertop
A classic High Country ridge walk with a steep, rocky final climb and sweeping views.
Distance: Approx. 7 km return
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Map & GPX: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/australia/victoria/mount-timbertop

The Paps
A short but steep climb to Mansfield’s iconic twin peaks with 360-degree views.
Distance: Approx. 4 km return
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Map & GPX: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/australia/victoria/the-paps

These are some of our favourite dog-friendly walks around Mansfield, Merrijig, Sawmill Settlement, and the Mt Buller foothills. If you’re staying with us and would like personalised suggestions based on your dog’s age and fitness, just ask.