Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the Isabella Mary Kelly Track, a moderate 1.5km circuit trail in New South Wales, near Port Macquarie. Immerse yourself in the rich history as you tread along the old Port Macquarie Road, starting at Tommy Owens Crossing and ending at Ms Kellys Crossing. Ideal for a family bushwalk, engage in birdwatching while traversing through the dense swamp oak terrain. Discover the legacy of NSW’s only independent female colonial settler on this trail.

Length:

1.5km

Duration:

45 mins

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Kate Kellys Track

End: Kate Kellys Track

Brimbin Nature Reserve

New South Wales

Nearby town: Brimbin

From state capital: 326km

Latitude: -31.8354576

Longitude: 152.4596481

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Hike overview

Isabella Mary Kelly, New South Wales' only independent female colonial settler, was a wealthy Irish woman who sailed into Sydney Harbour in 1834 looking for a tree change. She bought up Crown Land and ran her own station. Isabella was apparently disliked by her neighbours for doing 'men's work', her house burnt down in her absence and she was, for a time, unjustly imprisoned after subletting to a conman. History has painted her character in various extremes, from a gun-slinging tyrant to a brave pioneering hero.
Beginning at Tommy Owens Crossing, the track passes through a dense area of swamp oak then, from Ms Kellys Crossing, follows part of Old Port Macquarie Road. From the late 1820s, this historic route allowed bullock-drawn vehicles to cross Dawson River and continue on to Port Macquarie.
It's a great trail for walking with children. See how many different birds they can spot along the way.

Tips

The weather in the area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch.

Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.

The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.

Map and GPX file

Ms Kellys Walking Track (1.5km)

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Photo gallery

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Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Alstonville, Clunes, Dunoon, Goonellabah, Lismore, Nimbin, Wollongbar

Getting to the trailhead in Brimbin Nature Reserve.

On entering Brimbin Nature Reserve, follow the signs to the walking track from the carpark. Parking Parking is available at Brimbin picnic area. It can be a busy place on the weekend, so parking may be limited.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Brimbin Nature Reserve in the North Coast region
Brimbin Nature Reserve is always open but may have to close at times due to flood events, poor weather or fire danger.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Brimbin Nature Reserve or nearby? Try these walks with a similar 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

Reviews

Ms Kellys Walking Track (1.5km)

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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.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Map and GPX file

Ms Kellys Walking Track (1.5km)