Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of Mann River Nature Reserve with the 8km Tommy's Rock lookout walking track, located near Glen Innes. This Grade 5 trail offers stunning views across The Great Dividing Range, a challenge for fit bushwalkers, and a chance to spot unique wildlife like brush-tailed rock wallabies and glossy black cockatoos. Uncover the legend of Tommy McPherson as you venture towards the lookout, a perfect spot for panoramic vistas and refreshing mountain air.

Length:

8km

Duration:

4.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Narrow Pass Trail

End: Narrow Pass Trail

Mann River Nature Reserve

New South Wales

Nearby town: Diehard

From state capital: 623km

Latitude: -29.71670333

Longitude: 152.0989383

Overview

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3,672 views

Hike overview

For unending scenic wilderness views over The Great Dividing Range, head for Tommys Rock lookout and walking track, in beautiful Mann River Nature Reserve, near Glen Innes. The imposing rocky knob is a short drive from Mann River campground and picnic area. Fit bushwalkers will love the challenge of the steep walking track to the summit. Whichever way you get there, the crisp mountain air and panoramic views will take your breath away.
Named after Tommy McPherson, a remarkable Aboriginal man who, legend suggests, was a skilled stockman, bushranger, escaped fugitive and gold digger. If you're walking the steep track, pause to catch your breath and keep your eyes peeled for signs of Tommy's secret gold mine.
Brush-tailed rock wallabies, with their distinct cheek stripe, live around the rocks near the lookout. You might also hear the raucous glossy black cockatoos feasting on the nearby she-oaks.

Tips

If driving the trail, 4WD is essential due to steep rollovers and rugged terrain. Not suitable for trailers
The weather in the area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.
There is limited mobile reception in this park
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go bird watching

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.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file
Tommys Rock Lookout & Walking Track (8km)

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Mann River Nature Reserve.

To Tommys Rock carpark. Tommys Rock lookout and walking track is in Mann River Nature Reserve. To get there:Drive west of Grafton along Gwydir Highway for 125km or east from Glen Innes for 37kmTake the unsealed Old Grafton Road and drive for approximately 2km before descending 14km on sealed road to the base of Big HillDriving past Mann River campground continue along Old Grafton Road for about 6kmPark at the bottom of the track if you intend to take the steep 9km round trip, alternatively drive 4.5km to the lookout carpark. Park entry points Tommys Rock carpark See on map Road quality Check the weather before you set out as the road to Tommys Rock lookout can become boggy when it rains. Parking Parking is available at Tommy’s lookout carpark or along the road near the start of the walking track.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Ashford, Deepwater, Emmaville, Glen Innes, Mann River

About the region

Mann River Nature Reserve in the Country NSW region
Mann River Nature Reserve is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Mann River Nature Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.

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
Tommys Rock Lookout & Walking Track (8km)

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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

Tommys rock lookout & walking track (8km)

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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Tommys Rock Lookout & Walking Track (8km)