Wrights Lookout Track
North Coast NSW
New England National Park
A challenging but rewarding hike to an incredible lookout atop a heath-covered plateau with expansive views.
This lightly trafficked walk starts from the Robinsons Knob car park on Point Lookout Road.
Start on the Robinson Knob fire trail, which is also the starting point for the multi-day New England Wilderness Walk. Keep left at the first junction – the other path is to the off-track Cliffs Trail.
Stay on the fire trail for approximately 1.6 kms, walking through a mix of eucalypt forest and rainforest. On your way you will pass the trailhead for the Lyrebird Track (on your left).
You’ll then reach the trailhead for Wrights Lookout. There is also a trail to the left (continuation of the New England Wilderness Walk) and right (to the Cascades Track).
Clamber up the rocky steps for a short but very steep climb (limited exposure) to the top of the plateau, which is actually the ancient trachyte remnant of Ebor Volcano.
Dry, low heath and rocky outcrops cover the plateau, which offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding area, including down to Bellinger River.
In spring, the heathlands come to life with colourful wildflowers.
From here, retrace your steps back to the starting point.
It is well worth combining this walk with the beautiful Cascades Track, which runs alongside Five Day Creek.
For more experienced walkers also wanting to do the Lyrebird Track, it is suggested to do it as a combination track with the Cascades Track and Wrights Lookout.
New England National Park can be visited as part of the 185 km Waterfall Way scenic drive from Coffs Harbour to Armidale.
Track: The track consists of a fire trail to the trailhead, followed by steep, rocky steps up to the top of plateau and then rocky paths on the plateau. The track is well-signed and easy to follow. It is very important to stay to the track on the top of the plateau to protect the fragile environment.
Difficulty: The track requires a relative degree of fitness, with a considerably steep section, but is suitable for most walkers with sufficient time. Those with balance issues may find the steep rocky section to get to the top of the plateau challenging.
Direction: This is an out-and-back track that returns the way it came.
getting there
The trail starts from the Robinsons Knob car park on Point Lookout Road in Ebor – approximately 5.25 hours drive south of Brisbane, 1 hour drive east of Armidale, 2 hours drive west of Coffs Harbour or 6.5 hours drive north of Sydney.
Much of the road into New England National Park is unsealed (approximately 12 kms), however is suitable for 2WD vehicles in normal weather conditions.
Parking is limited, but typically sufficient for how trafficked the walk is.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round.
Be sure to check the New South Wales Parks and Wildlife Service website for updates regarding track closures.
Note that there are park fees associated with entering many national parks in New South Wales. Check the New South Wales Parks and Wildlife Service website for more information.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.