7 Epic Things To Do In Tom Price: An Underrated Destination In The Pilbara

Tom Price may be known as the gateway to Karijini National Park, but this town is so much more than just a base for exploring.

Nestled in the heart of Western Australia’s Pilbara region, Tom Price offers an incredible mix of stunning landscapes, thrilling outdoor adventures, and a rich connection to both mining history and Indigenous culture.

Karijini’s jaw-dropping gorges and waterfalls are just a short drive away, but Tom Price itself has its own list of must-dos, from the breathtaking summit of Mount Nameless to the peaceful birdwatching at Kings Lake.

And if you’re up for a real outback adventure, grab a 4WD and take on the rugged tracks leading to the best vantage points and hidden gems around town!

Tom Price is a destination in its own right, and this guide will walk you through all the best things to do, where to stay, and top tips for making the most of your visit.

7 epic things to do in Tom Price 

We recognise the traditional owners of this land, the Eastern Guruma people.

1) Visit Karijini National Park

Tom Price makes a fine base from which to explore what is arguably Australia’s most dramatic National Park, Karijini! The closest entry point is only 50 km east, perfect for one (or more) day trips.

It’s the second-largest national park in Western Australia and a must-visit for its dramatic landscapes, ancient rock formations, and stunning gorges​, like Weano Gorge or Joffre Gorge.

You can also take a refreshing dip at Fortescue Falls or at the Handrail Pool if you’re feeling extra adventurous.

Many roads in Karijini are sealed (including the one to the popular Karijini Eco Retreat), but the park is mostly dirt roads.

So it might be best to visit with a 4WD. You can hire one at Tom Price or Paraburdoo.

Keep reading: Full guide to visiting the incredible Karijini National Park.

2) Climb or Drive Mount Nameless (Jarndunmunha)

This impressive peak looms 1128 metres above the town. Its Aboriginal name, Jarndunmunha, means “place of rock wallabies”.

You can drive up to the top if you have a 4WD, it’s a 30-minute drive on gravel roads… Making it the highest vehicle-accessible peak in WA.

Another option is the 3-hour return walk, which offers views of the ranges, the Tom Price mine site, and the town itself.

3) Hike Mount Bruce (Punurrunha)

Punurrunha, WA’s second-highest peak, provides a challenging but rewarding hike.

It’s a 9-km return walk, that offers unmatched views of the surrounding plains and the Marandoo Mine. It takes around 6 hours to do on average, but it’s best to start early to avoid the heat!

4) See the Wildflowers

From June to September, the Pilbara landscape bursts into colour with wildflowers like the Sturt Desert Pea and various wattles!

You can see them pretty much anywhere, including near the caravan park. They’re best enjoyed on hikes, but you’ll also see them along the roads in and outside of Karijini.

5) Take a Mining Tour

The Rio Tinto Iron Ore Mine, one of the largest mines in the world​, is in Tom Price!

You can join a mine tour from Tom Price (several operators offer this experience), for a fascinating insight into mining operations, massive machinery, and the history of iron ore in the region.

Just make sure to wear closed-in shoes, and bring a camera for shots of the giant haul trucks.

6) Birdwatching at Kings Lake

Kings Lake is an artificial lake just outside of town, ideal for birdwatching and picnics​.

You’re likely to spot waterfowl and other local bird species. No swimming is allowed, but it’s a great location for photography and wildlife enthusiasts.

7) Visit Millstream Chichester National Park

Millstream Chichester National Park is a hidden gem in the Pilbara region!

The park is known for its contrasting landscapes of rolling hills, deep gorges, and refreshing waterholes. It’s a great spot to escape the heat and enjoy some natural beauty. 4WD is a must.

It’s a 3-hour drive from Tom Price, so you might want to stay in one of the campgrounds. If you’re planning on visiting Karratha, visit it then – it’s a 1.5-hour drive from there.

When is the best time to visit Tom Price, WA?

The best time to visit Tom Price is from August to October, as it’s wildflower season and the temperatures are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, exploring Karijini, or taking a mining tour.

Summer can get pretty intense, with temperatures over 35°C, so it’s best to avoid those scorching months.

How to get to Tom Price, WA?

The easiest way to get to Tom Price is from the nearby town of Paraburdoo, as it has the nearest airport to town.

The drive from Paraburdoo to Tom Price is pretty straightforward, you’ll arrive in town in under an hour.

You can fly into Paraburdoo from Perth, there are daily direct flights that take you from one place to the other in under 2 hours. Then rent a car from Paraburdoo Airport to complete the journey to Tom Price!

We always check here to find the best deals for plane tickets.

There’s no direct public transport to Tom Price from Paraburdoo, so driving is pretty much the only option.

These rental car companies service Paraburdoo Airport. Compare the two to find the best price for you: Rental Cars and Discover Cars.

Keep in mind that if you want to drive through unsealed roads in Karijini, you will need a 4WD. If you’re renting, double-check the fine print because some rental companies don’t allow driving on unsealed roads.

How many days to stay in Tom Price?

4-5 days is perfect for Tom Price. This gives you around 3 days to explore Karijini, then another for Mount Nameless and/or Mount Bruce, and maybe even squeeze in a mining tour.

If you’re into hiking or just want to take it slow and enjoy the scenery, you could stretch it to 7 days. It’s a small town, so you won’t need much longer than that, but it’s definitely worth a few days to soak in all the natural beauty and adventure.

Where to stay in Tom Price?

Accommodation options here are a bit limited. There’s a lodge, a hotel, and a caravan park.

The Tom Price tourist park is excellent! There’s a short walk from the back of the camping area that takes you to a lookout, perfect for watching both the sunset AND sunrise.

It has rooms and chalets that accommodate up to 4 people, plus a pool, BBQ and other amenities. The camping sites are powered, shaded, and pet-friendly.

Plus, you’ll have Mt Nameless on one side and the Hamersley ranges on the other!

Click here to check the current prices of the Tom Price caravan park.

Where to eat in Tom Price?

When it comes to dining in Tom Price, options are limited due to its remote location.

However, there are still a few spots that offer good food and friendly service, making them worth checking out while you’re in town. Here are some top picks:

• Red Breeze Restaurant ($$) serves tasty Chinese dishes like plum duck and Mongolian beef, with friendly service and a kids’ play area. Open lunch and dinner, except Mondays.
• Davy Jones Locker Cafe ($$) serves one of the best burgers around, with great chips to match. Definitely worth a visit.
• The Bedford Paraburdoo ($$) offers excellent meals like garlic fries, cheeseburgers, and steak burgers, all served with great flavour. Be sure to arrive a bit early as they may close slightly before the stated time.

Top Tips

EVERYTHING gets covered in red dirt, there’s no escaping it. Don’t bring white clothes, and always carry wet wipes to clean up after a dusty day out.

Tom Price can be expensive. As a mining town in the middle of nowhere, they have to bring pretty much everything they need. Keep this in mind before visiting!

If you’re heading into Karijini National Park, fuel up in Tom Price. There’s no fuel available in the park, and it’s a long way to the next station.

During peak season (July to October), the town can fill up quickly with tourists and mine workers, so book your accommodation ahead of time, especially if you want to camp in Karijini.

Did you know?

The town was named for American geologist Thomas Moore Price. Thanks to his efforts, the area’s rich iron ore deposits became key to Australia’s mining industry.

Tragically, he died only two hours after being told that a rich ore deposit had been discovered in the area!

While it’s known for mining, Tom Price has earned the nickname “Top Town” because it’s the highest town in Western Australia, sitting 747 metres above sea level.

This high-altitude location gives it cooler temperatures compared to other Pilbara towns, making it a more comfortable spot for both residents and visitors.

FAQs

The bottom line

Tom Price might seem like just another mining town, but it’s packed with unforgettable experiences that make it a must-visit.

From the towering heights of Mount Nameless to the stunning gorges of Karijini National Park, adventure is never far away. The panoramic views and rugged landscapes are a dream for hikers and nature lovers alike.

If you have a 4WD, don’t miss the chance to explore the scenic off-road spots or take a drive up Mount Nameless for unbeatable views. And for those interested in local history, a mining tour will give you a deeper understanding of the area.

Whether you’re here for the wildflowers, birdwatching at Kings Lake, or just soaking in the outback beauty, Tom Price is well worth adding to your Pilbara itinerary!