Parks Victoria is holding several special events for older visitors and their families in some of the state’s most beautiful parks to celebrate this year’s Victorian Seniors Festival.
The Victorian Seniors Festival runs across the entire month of October and has thousands of free and low-cost events for seniors to enjoy, with the Parks Victoria-hosted Park Walks just a handful of what’s available.
Park Walks are free guided walks led by Parks Victoria trained volunteers.
These group walks allow you to enjoy walking in bushland without having to worry about where the trail is or how long it might take.
Walkers are encouraged to enjoy the beautiful trees and wildlife and can relax and catch up with friends or family while participating in some gentle exercise.
Parks Walks are also great for your mental health.
Walking in nature can decrease blood pressure and stress levels, and for people who struggle with loneliness, Park Walks are an easy way to meet new people.
Always remember to wear closed comfortable footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, and to bring a water bottle.
Victorian Seniors Festival Park Walks will be hosted in the coming weeks in the Dandenong Ranges.
Join the volunteer-led walk along the Lyrebird Loop circuit trail in the Dandenong Ranges National Park and enter a fantastic rainforest of spectacular Mountain Ash, eucalypts and lush tree ferns.
Listen for the call of the lyrebird – you might even be lucky enough to spot one along the way!
This 5.5km walk will take place on Thursday October 19 at 9:30am, and Thursday 26 October at 9:30am.
It is of moderate difficulty and includes some hills and uneven terrain.
Walks commence and end at Grants Picnic Ground.
Toilet facilities are available.
Parks Victoria will also host a specific grandchild-friendly Park Walk in the Dandenong Ranges on Thursday 26 October at the Margaret Lester Trail at 9:30am.
This easy walk is just over 500 meters long and is stroller and ‘little legs’ friendly.
It includes some hills and uneven terrain, but is easier enough to be enjoyed by the whole family regardless of their age.
The walk will commence and end at Grants Picnic Ground.
Trailrider all-terrain wheelchairs can be reserved for walks in the Dandenong Ranges for those with limited mobility.
Hire is free and bookings must be made in advance, by calling (03) 9755 2888
Book in for your local walk on eventbrite.com.au/o/parks-victoria-park-walks-17090208863
