Timeline
18:26
Arrive at Mann River Nature Reserve. Park near the Beardy Waters bridge access on Old Grafton Road. Since there are no shops in the immediate vicinity, check the route back toward Glen Innes or Gwydir Highway if you need a pre-sunset snack or drink. If you have supplies, find a flat rock or picnic table near the riverbank to settle in.
19:26
Walk the short track up to Tommy's Rock Lookout. The elevation gives you a wider vantage point over the winding river and surrounding bush. Settle in here as the golden light begins to paint the landscape in warm hues. This is the perfect time to set up your camera or simply watch the colors shift.
19:56
The sun sets toward the WSW. From Tommy's Rock Lookout, you can track the descent of the sun as it dips below the western horizon. The golden light fades quickly, leaving a soft blue twilight over the Mann River. Stay for a few minutes to let your eyes adjust to the changing light.
20:41
Descend from the lookout and head back to your car. It is dark now, so use torches or phone lights to navigate the track safely. Drive back south on Old Grafton Road, cross the Beardy Waters bridge, and head east on the Gwydir Highway toward Glen Innes for dinner.
Local tip
The reserve is free entry, but if you plan to stay longer, reservations are required for camping. No pets or smoking are allowed in the reserve.
Check before you go
- Check the route back to Glen Innes for food options before sunset, as there are no shops at Mann River Nature Reserve.
- Bring torches for the walk back to the car after dark.
- Ensure you have all necessary food and water if you do not plan to return to town immediately.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Glen Innes (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).