Dirty Donna Loop

A long forest climb, the summit of Mount Donna Buang and a fern-lined aqueduct return make this a rewarding 61.8 km gravel loop from Yarra Junction. Roll west on the Warburton Rail Trail to Launching Place, turn into Don Valley and settle into the sustained climb up Don Road. The unsealed back road winds through tall forest below Ben Cairn before joining the sealed road for the summit. The lookout tower is an optional stop on foot.

Descend past Ten Mile Picnic Area and the Rainforest Gallery, then leave Donna Buang Road for the O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail. Its shaded, unsealed path follows the hillside through tree ferns and mountain ash before the route drops back to the valley and rejoins the rail trail. Near the finish, the route includes a short road spur to Gladysdale Bakehouse before returning to Yarra Junction. Warburton’s shops are not on this version of the loop: the marked bakery, coffee bar, station and bike hire are optional town detours with extra distance and climbing.

Allow for a demanding day: approximately 1,187 m of climbing, a long descent and about 41% recorded unpaved surface. Gravel tyres around 38 mm or wider are a sensible starting point, with conditions and rider experience determining what is suitable. Carry food, enough drinking water, repair gear and a warm layer. Do not rely on untreated mountain springs. Slow down for walkers on the aqueduct and rail trails, watch for slippery debris and take care at road crossings and on the bakery’s highway approach.

Check Parks Victoria’s current conditions before departure and obey every closure sign; do not use informal bypasses around closed bridges or gates. As checked on 11 October 2026, selected-night closures affect parts of Mount Donna Buang and the O’Shannassy area between 5 pm and 6 am through 21 October. The route is not a guarantee of access. Starting from Lilydale station adds a substantial rail-trail approach and return.