Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 226m
Min elevation: 196m
Total Ascent: 60m
Hike overview
Enjoy a scenic 1-kilometer journey through the heart of Arthurs Seat State Park with the King Falls Circuit Walk. This moderate (Grade 3) walk, taking roughly 1 hour to complete, is perfect for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
Starting from the King Falls carpark on Waterfall Gully Road, the trail winds past unique grass trees and through a lush casuarina forest. As you delve deeper, the landscape transforms into damp fern-lined gullies teeming with native flora. Keep your eyes peeled – you might spot some of the park's abundant wildlife!
The well-maintained track features raised boardwalks, gravel paths, and some inclines. While not overly challenging, sturdy footwear is recommended for a comfortable experience. During wetter periods, witness the cascading beauty of King Falls as it tumbles down Waterfall Gully Creek.
At a junction, you can extend your adventure: continue onto the Two Bays Walking Track for a longer exploration, or follow the boardwalk through a charming fern gully that opens into grassy woodlands before returning to the Waterfall Gully carpark.
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Content use
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Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 226 m
Min elevation: 196 m
Total climbing: 60 m
Total descent: -60 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Arthurs Seat State Park.
Getting to the King Falls Circuit Walk from Melbourne is a breeze! The drive itself takes approximately 1.5 hours, offering a scenic introduction to the Mornington Peninsula. You can navigate using GPS or follow these general directions: head south on major roads like the M1 or the M3, following signs for the Mornington Peninsula. Take the exit towards Arthurs Seat/Dromana and continue onto Arthurs Seat Road. After a few turns, you’ll find Waterfall Gully Road leading you directly to the King Falls carpark, the official starting point for your adventure.
Closest towns to this walk: Arthurs Seat, Balnarring, Dromana, Flinders, Main Ridge, Merricks, Merricks Beach, Red Hill, Rosebud, Shoreham
About the region
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.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Arthurs Seat State Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Track grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
Packing checklists
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Let someone know
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.
7 Reviews on “King Falls Circuit Walk (1km)”
The King Falls Circuit Walk was a delightful one-hour loop that surprised me with its variety. The 1km trail took me past cool grass trees, through a sunny casuarina forest, and finally into a damp fern gully. The well-maintained path with boardwalks and some inclines made it easy to navigate, and the cascading King Falls (when flowing) were a beautiful reward. Whether you continue onwards or loop back via the charming fern gully, this walk is perfect for a nature fix in Arthurs Seat.