Centenary Walk & the Island Hike (12.5km)

Centenary Walk and The Island is a 12.5 km, grade 4 hike in Werribee Gorge State Park, Victoria, and typically takes around four hours to complete. This anti clockwise circuit delivers a solid mix of steep climbs, river crossings, open woodland, and elevated viewpoints, making it one of the more demanding but rewarding walks in the park.

The walk can be started from either Meikles Point Picnic Area or the Quarry Picnic Area. From Meikles Point, the route follows the Gorge Circuit Track and begins climbing Patterson’s Spur, gaining height steadily as it moves through rocky slopes and forested gullies. The climb is sustained and can feel strenuous, but it sets the tone for the day and offers a real sense of progress as the gorge opens out behind you. The track eventually leads to the Quarry Picnic Area, providing a good place for a short break before continuing.

From the quarry, the circuit heads north past the toilet block and briefly exits the park boundary. The walk continues beyond Hanson’s Farm before reaching the junction of the Circuit Track and Centenary Walk. Turning right here, the track moves through open woodland and gently undulating terrain toward Myrniong Creek. A bridge at Junction Pool provides a crossing point before the next major climb.

After crossing the creek, the track rises steeply toward the James Whyte Island Reserve. This ascent is one of the more challenging sections of the walk, with sustained climbing and limited shade in places. Reaching the top is well worth the effort, with broad views across Werribee Gorge and the surrounding landscape offering a strong sense of scale and isolation.

From the island reserve, retrace your steps back to the junction with the Centenary Walk, then turn right to follow an old vehicle track. This section leads to Eastern Viewpoint, where elevated views across the James Whyte Island Reserve and the gorge below provide another highlight of the circuit. After taking time to enjoy the outlook, backtrack about 100 metres to locate the Short Circuit Track on the right.

The Short Circuit Track leads toward a disused water channel at the junction with the Gorge Circuit. Turning right here, the walk follows the channel briefly before descending a set of stairs that return you to Meikles Point Picnic Area. This final section eases the pace after the earlier climbs and brings the circuit to a satisfying finish beside the river.