Tommys Rock lookout and walking track is a 8km, grade 5 hike located in the Mann River Nature Reserve, New South Wales. The hike should take around 4.5 hrs to complete.
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.
Route and GPX file
If you have a GPX or KML file for this hike and are happy to share it, please upload your file here.
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.
Trail location
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Getting there
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.
Gallery
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Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
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.
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Gear to consider

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Let someone know
Let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return. Fill in an online trip intentions form to privately send important details about your adventure to your emergency contact. They can then inform emergency services if you don’t return on time.
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.