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Hiking trails & Routes

Australia

Victoria

The Tan Track

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Australia

Victoria

The Tan Track

Easy

191

hikers

The Tan Track

01:03

3.93km

40m

Hiking

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: February 27, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

54 m

Melbourne Observatory

Highlight • Monument

The Melbourne Observatory was constructed in 1861–63, and expanded until 1902 to eventually comprise 22 rooms. Far from only stargazing, the Observatory staff provided critical scientific data essential for the smooth running of industries ranging from shipping to farming and city business to politics.

The Observatory was the home for weather forecasting, time setting, setting weights and measures standards and for the surveying of Victoria. The distinctive shapes of the buildings, built and added to between 1861 and 1902, topped by sliding domes and opening roof structures evoke immediate recognition of their functions as devices for tracking and charting stars, watching the weather and keeping time.

rbg.vic.gov.au/visit-melbourne/attractions/melbourne-observatory

Tip by

2.01 km

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

Highlight • Natural

Bordering the Yarra River near the Main Yarra Trail, the Royal Botanic Gardens are one of Melbourne’s most beautiful green spaces. The gardens cover 38 hectares and feature a mix of landscaped lawns, lakes, and collections of native and international plants. Walking paths wind through the gardens, offering quiet spots to relax beneath large trees or beside the water. It’s a peaceful place to take a break from the city, with great views of Melbourne’s skyline rising beyond the greenery.

Tip by

2.76 km

The Tan Track

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Looping around the Botanical Gardens and running along the Yarra River, the Tan Track is one of Melbourne's most iconic trails. You can do "The Tan" as a simple loop or use it to weave through the other trails and attractions within the gardens.

Tip by

3.93 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.82 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

1.93 km

1.88 km

113 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Sunday 17 May

17°C

12°C

57 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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The Tan Track

Melbourne Observatory

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

The Tan Track

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