Ruffey Creek Linear Park Dog Off Leash Area (Templestowe)
The dog off leash area is a long area which follows Ruffey Creek from King Street Doncaster to Ruffey Street (Melways reference: 33 C3 - G8)
There is an underpass which leads from Ruffey Lake park under the King Street bridge. Initially there is not much grassy area beside the Ruffey Creek Trail but the amount of bike traffic on the trail is generally quite low. After about 600m the trail passes under Williamsons Road and then passes through Montpellier Crescent Reserve which has big grassy areas but they are very steep. If you follow the path it is more gentle and sweeping.
After leaving Montpellier Crescent Reserve there is a section going northwards along Eumeralla Avenue where dogs need to be on-leash. Where Eumeralla Avenue becomes Nambour Road, the trail starts again and follows the creek. The asphalt path reaches busy Foote Street which is a dual carriageway without lights or a pedestrian crossing. Take care crossing the road here.
At this point it is not possible to follow the creek and it becomes an on-leash area. Go up McLachlan Street and then turn left and go along Parker Street until you reach the main road (Swilk Street). Cross this road and find the trail which is on the left side of the Bowling Club car park.
The route becomes off-leash again and at a point where the trail crosses a bridge over Ruffey Creek, our dog decided to go for a swim in the creek even though the banks were very steep. Soon after you reach a large pedestrian bridge across the Yarra River which connects to the Main Yarra Trail.
There are big grassy areas here where the fenced Wombat Bend Play Space is located and the Finns Reserve Picnic Area with Nature Play Area, toilets, shelter with two tables, unshaded tables, bins and water tap with bowl.
The trail extends to a huge grassy area to the west which is dotted with trees. The path ends at busy Templestowe Road where there is a bin near the entrance gate. This large area has two paths - an asphalt path running beside the river and a gravel path running close to Templestowe Road and Union Street. This area seems popular with dog owners and you should find other dogs to play with.
The entire route is about 3.7km one way.
Photos:
Location
Cnr King Street and The Boulevarde, Templestowe 3106 Map
