Hike at a Glance
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Hike overview
Leaving directly from the carpark near the information point, this pleasant and accessible walk takes visitors to the top of the dramatic The Rock formation. It begins gently, crossing small gravelled slopes between graceful red gums.
As you climb higher, the path begins to wind around recessed cliffs hiding cool woolly ragwort plants - a threatened species native to the area that blooms with yellow flowers. Wallabies scatter through the undergrowth, lizards bask in the warm sun, and you may see glossy black cockatoos or wedge-tailed eagles circling overhead. Birdwatching only gets better the further you climb.
This hike becomes steep towards the end, so make sure you bring some sturdy shoes and plenty of water. The payoff is notable, though, with a spectacular scenic view across bush and rolling farmland from the top of The Rock, providing an excellent opportunity for photography. Just a short trip from Wagga Wagga, this is one of the best lookouts in the region. Galore Hills is often visible to the west, and on clear winter days the snow-capped peak of Mount Kosciuszko rises in the distance. The nearby The Rock picnic area offers a great place to stretch your legs afterwards, too.
Tips
Remember to take your binoculars if you want to go birdwatching.
The weather in the area can be extreme and unpredictable, so please ensure you're well-prepared for your visit.
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.
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.
Walk map and GPX file
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Content use
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Gallery
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Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: The Rock Nature Reserve.
Yerong walking track starts at The Rock picnic area in The Rock Nature Reserve – Kengal Aboriginal Place. To get there:From Wagga Wagga, follow the Sturt Highway westTurn left onto the Olympic HighwayContinue to The Rock and turn right onto Urana StreetHeading out of town this becomes Lockhart -The Rock RoadContinue for approximately 2.5kmTurn left into The Rock Nature Reserve – Kengal Aboriginal Place and continue for approximately 500m to the picnic areaYerong walking track begins near the information shelter. Parking Parking is available at The Rock picnic area including bus parking.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
About the region
The Rock Nature Reserve - Kengal Aboriginal Place offers scenic picnic spots, walking opportunities, picnicking, birdwatching and rock climbing, close to Wagga Wagga. Tucked away in quiet farmland, The Rock Nature Reserve - Kengal Aboriginal Place is a small but diverse haven surrounding a remarkable geological giant: The Rock, soaring 364m above the plains.
Let someone know
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near The Rock Nature Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Suggest an edit
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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.
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.