Toolangi State Forest

Toolangi State Forest sprawls across the Central Highlands with tall mountain ash trees, waterfalls, and a network of walking trails winding through temperate rainforest. The landscape ranges from dense tree cover to more open areas with views across the surrounding region.

After the devastating bushfire of 1939, the forest underwent natural regeneration, though some sections were later touched by fires in 2009. Old-growth forest pockets have survived in various parts of the woodland.

The name Toolangi comes from Aboriginal language referring to stringybark gum trees that still dominate the landscape today. These trees hold meaning for local communities and shape how people experience the forest.

Located about 90 minutes from Melbourne, the forest has designated areas for camping, hiking, mountain biking, and four-wheel driving. The trail network is extensive, so using a map or local information helps you choose the right route for your activity.

The forest is home to a notably large tree called the Kalatha Giant, which stands out distinctly from other trees in the region. This exceptional tree catches the attention of visitors interested in the forest's most impressive specimens.