Bundoora's Top Walking Trails Rated by Distance and Difficulty

Bundoora Park completed its trail rating project on 28 June with signs posted along every main path showing exact kilometre lengths and effort levels from easy to advanced.

The ratings arrived as Bundoora’s wellness groups reported steady winter turnout, with residents seeking measurable outdoor routes instead of gym memberships during the cooler months.

Two routes stand out on the new maps. The 2.4-kilometre easy loop starts at the Bundoora Park visitor centre on Plenty Road and circles the main lake on flat gravel. The 6.9-kilometre moderate trail begins at the Greenwood Reserve entrance on Settlement Road and follows the creek corridor through open woodland before returning via the old farm dam.

Bundoora Council’s 2025 resident survey recorded 62 percent of adults walking at least three times weekly, an increase of 14 percentage points from the 2023 figure, with trail users citing the new distance markers as the main reason for returning.

Easy Options for Beginners

The 2.4-kilometre lake loop stays under 20 metres of elevation gain and takes most walkers 35 minutes. Bundoora Active, the council-run fitness program, schedules its Tuesday morning sessions here at 9am with volunteer leaders and free loaner walking poles available at the centre.

A second beginner option, the 1.8-kilometre perimeter path at Greenwood Reserve, follows sealed paths around the sports fields and finishes near the playground on McKimmies Road. Both routes are lit until 7pm and remain accessible after rain.

Moderate and Advanced Routes

The 6.9-kilometre creek trail climbs 85 metres total and includes one steep section near the old quarry. Walkers finish in 90 to 110 minutes. The 9.3-kilometre advanced loop extends the same path into the northern section of Gresswell Forest, adding another 120 metres of climb and several unsealed stretches.

Both longer routes are mapped on the council website with downloadable GPX files. The next Bundoora Walkers Saturday group departs from the Plenty Road car park at 8am on 18 July and covers the moderate creek trail at a steady pace.

Residents can pick up printed maps at the Bundoora Park visitor centre or download them before heading out. Those unsure of their fitness level are advised to start with the lake loop and check with a local GP before attempting the longer climbs.