A fantastic, picturesque walk that loops along Melbourne’s second major river, the mighty Maribyrnong. Afton Street pedestrian bridge links Moonee Ponds and Maribrynong sides of the river.
A fantastic, picturesque walk that loops along Melbourne’s second major river, the mighty Maribyrnong. Afton Street pedestrian bridge links Moonee Ponds and Maribrynong sides of the river.
Set on a beautiful stretch of river with sweeping views of the river's bend, this 4 km circuit is popular with people walking and jogging. Could this be the 'Tan of the West?
The Maribyrnong River’s name comes from the Aboriginal phrase Mirring-gnay-bir-nong, meaning ‘I can hear a ringtail possum’. The river is of great significance to the Wurundjeri people.
The first section of this walk travels the Moonee Ponds/Aberfeldie side of the river, passing Maribyrnong Park Playground, the Boathouse, Essendon Rowing Club, Poyntons Nursery and Cafe and Poyntons Landing along the Boulevard.
The footbridge at Afton Street allows access to the other side of the river (Chifley Drive, Maribrynong). The return leg of the loop provides more great views of the river.
For children, there are three playgrounds to choose from. The wooden pirate ship, "the Black Sapphire" is a stand-out favourite.
The river is home to a huge array of wildlife: birds, rakali, frogs, turtles, fish and waterbugs.
Dogs
This walk is great for on-leash dog walking.
Let your hounds run free in the Chifley Drive Reserve off-leash area and/or Aberfeldie Park Dog Off Leash Area.
Getting there
Tram: tram route 57, stop #41 at Maribyrnong Park.
Cars: There are many places to park on either side of the river.
This walk can be extended by connecting to Pipemakers Park (and Maribyrnong River) walk.
Public toilets are available at:
Maribyrnong Park
Riverside Park (Exeloo), The Boulevard
Coulson Gardens Playground, Chifley Drive
Drinking water fountains, seating, exercise equipment are located around the circuit.
14835 Views
This walk starts on the east bank of the river where the trail passes Maribyrnong Park.
The trail follows the bends of the mighty Maribrynong, with beautiful vistas, cafes and points of interest.
The wooden ship "the Black Sapphire" is a favourite with little kids and older ones too. Toilets, seating and BBQs make this a popular spot to enjoy.
Follow the trail up to the pedestrian bridge.
Afton Street pedestrian bridge enables the walk to continue on the other bank of the river. Great views up and downstream, too!
This walk is great for on-leash dog walking. If you're after something a bit more free-range, add some time at Chifley Drive Reserve dog off-leash area to your walk. Parking available.
The river is popular with rowing and kayaking.
Take the ramp up to Talip Bridge and walk across to finish to the loop. Or, if you'd like to keep walking the Maribrynong, follow the river under the bridge and connect with Pipe Makers Park walk.
View of the Anglers Tavern suffered from flood damage in October 2022 and is currently closed.