Ultimate Masons Falls Kinglake Day Trip Guide: Scenic Route, Trail Tips & FJ Cruiser Drive
Looking for a rewarding day trip near Melbourne that combines scenic mountain drives, lush eucalyptus forests, and a breathtaking 45-meter waterfall? Taking the Toyota FJ Cruiser up to Masons Falls in Kinglake National Park offers one of the best quick escapes into nature.
Trip Overview & Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Kinglake National Park, Victoria, Australia |
| Distance from Melbourne | ~65–70 km (Approx. 1 hour 15 mins) |
| Recommended Route | Greensborough → Diamond Creek → Hurstbridge → Kinglake |
| Walking Track Distance | 700 meters one-way (10–15 minute walk) |
| Track Accessibility | Well-maintained, pram and stroller-friendly |
| Waterfall Height | 45 meters |
| Best Season to Visit | Late Winter to Spring (for peak water flow) |
The Drive: Winding Roads to Kinglake
The journey out to Kinglake is half the fun—especially in a vehicle built for weekend adventures like the Toyota FJ Cruiser. Taking the scenic back route through Greensborough, Diamond Creek, and Hurstbridge leads directly into the twisting mountain climbs of the Kinglake Ranges.
Driving Tips:
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Winding Corridors: The section between Hurstbridge and Kinglake features narrow roads, sharp bends, and steep drop-offs on the passenger side.
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Share the Road: Keep a sharp eye out around tight corners for road cyclists and pushbikes tackling the mountain incline.
Kinglake Town & Community Resilience
Before reaching the national park, stop by the town of Kinglake. Named after Alexander William Kinglake, this resilient community was heavily impacted by the devastating 2009 Black Saturday bushfires.
The forest and vegetation have beautifully regrown over the years, matching the strength of the locals who rebuilt the town. Visiting local small businesses—whether stopping for a pub meal, filling up petrol, or grabbing fish and chips—makes a big impact in supporting the local economy.
Masons Falls Picnic Area & Park Facilities
The Masons Falls Picnic Area sits tucked beneath soaring gum trees, providing an ideal setup for lunch or a rest stop before hitting the trail.
Available Facilities:
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Large covered picnic shelters with tables and benches
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Clean public restrooms (male and female facilities)
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Electric/gas BBQs
Important Park Regulations:
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No Drinking Water: There are no potable water taps on site. Bring your own drinking water supply.
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No Solid Fuel Fires: Fire pits, wood, and charcoal BBQs are strictly prohibited.
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No Pets: Dogs are not allowed in the national park.
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Prohibited Activities: No camping, bike riding on walking tracks, or swimming.
The Hike to Masons Falls
From the main picnic grounds, the trail to the falls is an easy 700-meter walk through damp sclerophyll forest.
Halfway along the path, take the short right-turn side track down to the running creek. The small cascades and clear water running over rock ledges offer a serene spot to sit back and relax.
Continuing along the main path brings you directly to the elevated timber viewing platform. Built with safe protective railings and stepped bench seating, the lookout provides sweeping views across the gorge to the 45-meter drop of Masons Falls.
