A scenic and easy escape, the Arthurs Seat Circuit Walk is a leisurely 1.8km loop in the Mornington Peninsula, Victoria. Perfect for most fitness levels, this grade 2 hike takes roughly 1 hour to complete.
Arthurs Seat, the most recognisable feature of the Port Phillip Bay landscape, offers panoramic views as its reward. From the 314-meter summit (reachable by car or foot), admire the sparkling bay, Port Phillip Heads, and the distant city skyline. On a clear day, you might even glimpse You Yangs and Mount Macedon.
Follow the Crimson Rosella symbols for a relaxing stroll that takes in key points of interest near the summit. These include the Matthew Flinders Cairn, the beautiful Seawinds Gardens, the intriguing William Ricketts sculptures depicting Aboriginal culture, the Seawinds Nursery Volunteers Indigenous Garden, and of course, all the major lookouts boasting breathtaking vistas. The circuit can be completed in either direction, and for the more adventurous, it connects to the longer 28km Two Bays Trail.
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
Total distance: 2679 m
Max elevation: 309 m
Min elevation: 245 m
Total climbing: 140 m
Total descent: -139 m
Download file:
Arthurs-Seat-Circuit-Walk.gpx
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There are a few ways to get to Arthurs Seat from Melbourne. Driving is the most convenient, taking about an hour and 10 minutes. You can take several routes, but all involve connecting to either the Eastlink or Peninsula Link freeways. If you don't have a car, you can catch a train to Frankston and then a bus to Dromana on the Mornington Peninsula. From there, you'll likely need a taxi or rideshare service to reach Arthurs Seat itself, as public transport options are limited in the area. Parking is available at the Seawinds Garden Car Park where there are BBQs, facilities, and plenty of space for a picnic.
Main image: Parks Victoria
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Arthurs Seat State Park, a prominent feature in the landscape of Port Philip Bay, is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape in the traditional Country of the Bunurong People. The 314-meter summit provides spectacular views which, on a clear day, can stretch as far as the Melbourne city skyline, the You Yangs and Mount Macedon. For a bird's-eye view, climb aboard the all-weather Arthurs Seat Eagle, a state-of-the-art gondola that soars high above the trees.
There are plenty of activities to do in the park, from walking, jogging, and photography to mountain biking. The park's most popular attraction is Arthurs Seat summit, where visitors can take in the stunning views while relaxing or enjoying a barbecue. Take the pleasant circuit walk to Kings Falls or visit the delightful Seawinds Garden, featuring sculptures by William Ricketts.
The park also offers a variety of walking tracks, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate its diverse flora and fauna. Look out for some of the park's regionally significant species, including the Southern Brown Bandicoot, Koala, Lace Monitor, Southern Emu-wren, and Wedge-tailed Eagle.
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Mornington Peninsula National Park
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While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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1 Review on “Arthurs Seat Circuit Walk (2.5km)”
The Arthurs Seat Circuit Walk was a perfect choice for a relaxed afternoon with stunning views. It’s an easy 1.8km loop that took about an hour, great for all fitness levels. The highlight was definitely the panorama from the 314m summit – Port Phillip Bay, the city skyline, and even distant mountains on a clear day! The walk itself was interesting with the Matthew Flinders Cairn, pretty gardens, Aboriginal art, and lookouts. Definitely recommend it for anyone visiting Arthurs Seat.