#34 of 100 trips for 100 years - Milford Track 23-26 February 2023

The Milford Track was established in 1888 as a route between Lake Te Anau and Milford Sound and until 1959,  the only way to and from Milford Sound was to walk both ways along the track.  Named as 'the finest walk in the world', the Milford track was only accessible by paying for a guided walk until 1965 when the Otago Tramping Club refused to accept that only those who could pay were able to walk the Milford Track and a group of 40 people from the tramping club staged a protest or 'freedom' walk along the track.  It was this freedom walk that opened the track up to non-guided walkers.  As part of the Otago Tramping & Mountaineering Club's centenary project of 100 trips for 100 years it is appropriate that a group of 40 club members walked the Milford Track again.  

The dates had been chosen 2 years earlier and it was with pleasure that the group of 40 club members, ranging in age from mid 20's to almost 80 boarded the ferry at Te Anau Downs in good weather to take us to the start of the Milford Track.  The boat ride across the calm lake took around an hour and we were able to stand on the top deck and admire the mountains and fjords of the lake.  The boat passed the Quinton MacKinnon memorial cross on a small rocky island in the lake which has been erected near where MacKinnon's boat was found after he went missing in 1892.  Anticipation built as we neared the head of the lake and our journey on the Milford Track. 

Once we docked at the start of the track and collected our packs, we began  the first day's walk of one and half hours to Clinton Hut.  The first 10 minutes is along a track wide enough for a four wheeler until we reached Glade House which is the first hut for the guided walkers.  In 1928 the Otago Tramping Club walked the Milford Track and were present when the first Glade House was accidentally burnt down.  Today Glade House is situated in a sunny clearing and has magnificent views of the surrounding mountains.  We didn't have time to investigate further as we lined up to cross a large swing bridge over the stunningly clear green waters of the Clinton River

This first day saw us wandering along beside the Clinton River which is so clear that you can see the bottom no matter how deep and is an unbelievable green colour.  The track is flat and easy to walk with lots of glimpses of the river and mountains.  One highlight for me was stopping at a clearing with a good view of Dore Pass which is where I had come over to walk the Milford Track in 1988.

We took the short detour to the wetlands with wonderful red and orange mosses surrounding small shrubs which give the opportunity to appreciate the sheer sided mountains that enclose the Clinton River on both sides.  Not far from the wetlands is our first hut, Clinton Hut which has bunks for 40 people and a large kitchen area.  We found a bunk for the night and went for a short walk to a lovely swimming hole not far from the hut.  It was a brief swim for those brave enough to enter the cold water and show some skin to the hungry sandflies but the views from the rivers edge are simply stunning.

Back at the hut we had tea and snuggled down for the night before an early rise in the morning for a 16km walk to Mintaro Hut. The track starts reasonably flat through the beautiful native beech forest dripping with moss which soaks up the rainfall in this, the wettest place on the planet but for us today, it was sunny and very dry making for good walking.  Every few 100 metres or so is a glimpse of the clear green Clinton River and after a couple of short detours to viewing areas we emerged from the bush into the open valley.

From here the track became more interesting as we took all the side trips available.  This included the 10 minute detour to Hidden Lake which isn't really hidden because of the sign pointing the way.  With mirror like reflections in the calm lake we marveled at the sheer steepness of the valley sides and we discovered the only downside to having such fantastic weather is that there are no waterfalls.  We all agreed though, that no waterfalls is a small price to pay for having beautiful blue skies.  Another side trip was to Prairie Lake which was even lovelier than Hidden Lake, and that included the insect hidden in the cliff face (can you see it?)

We stopped for lunch at the Prairie where we met up with others from our group along with being discovered by the sandflies again.  After the Prairie the track begins a steady climb towards Mintaro Hut  with some sections requiring a rocky scramble while all around us, we were dwarfed by the rocky mountains and outcrops.

As we neared Mintaro Hut we started to get a closer look at tomorrow's obstacle, Omanui/MacKinnon Pass. Despite having done half the climbing to the pass already, it was still a daunting sight but our hopes were high for another cloudless day with stunning views.

With 20 minutes to the hut, the track starts to level off and we were able to pick up the pace a little. Arriving at the hut, we were greeted by three beautifully carved pouwhenua before climbing the stairs and finding our bed for the night.  This is the new Mintaro Hut, opened only last year and is in a much better spot than the old hut. After dinner, we had a fun night with much hilarity when put into teams for a tramping related quiz night. Some teams did really well in the quiz, while others lack of knowledge was highlighted. 

Knowing that the day going over Omanui/MacKinnon Pass was going to be the toughest day of the trip, we were up early and walking by 7.30am.  The track up the pass zig zags it's way up, what from a distance, looks like a sheer rock face but in reality is a nicely graded track with the odd steep, rocky section.  As we gained height, the trees started to become more stunted until we were out into the alpine tussock.  We were lucky to come across a family of kea feeding their young on the track.

After an hour and half of steady climbing we came out on top of the pass to magnificent views on both sides.  We rested for a few minutes by the MacKinnon memorial before exploring the area a little further.  We felt privileged to be in this special spot on such a beautiful day, especially when considering that often the views are obscured by cloud as more than 9 metres of rain falls each year. We spent longer on the top of Omanui/MacKinnon Pass than we should have but we just couldn't drag ourselves away. 

We were mesmerized by the many small tarns, surrounded by golden tussock on the pass with the reflections of the sheer rocky mountains on the dark watery surface. The view around each corner or knob we climbed over was breath takingly stunning.  Eventually though, we couldn't delay any longer and we carried on to the pass shelter then started the 1000m descent down the other side.

The descent to Dumpling Hut is hard on the knees as it is mostly an alpine sidle over a rocky track then a  scramble down over tree roots as bush line is reached.  We found a sheltered spot beside a side creek for lunch which gave us cold fresh water.  During lunch we spent our time admiring the views and looking back towards Omanui/MacKinnon Pass which looked almost vertical from this side.  

In the bush the track continued it's steep, knee jerking descent but with some nicely placed steps that took us close to the Roaring Burn which tumbled it's way down a number of waterfalls and rock faces. This was a nice distraction from the concentration needed for feet placement amongst the rocks and tree roots as we quickly lost height through the forest. The Roaring Burn is well named as it thundered beside us on and gave us the opportunity to rest and watch the water cascading down. After a couple of hours of knee jerking descent we rounded a corner to find we had made it almost to the bottom and there was the turn off to Sutherland Falls which is the highest waterfall in Australasia and the fifth highest waterfall in the world. 

The side trip to Sutherland Falls is a 1.5 hour return walk over a small hill which is tough on already tired legs but it is also a must do so we left our packs and made the trek to the base of the falls. The sheer power of the water hitting the plunge pool at the bottom of the falls is unbelievable.  A few hardy souls had braved the frigid waters to go for a swim while others donned their rain jackets to head behind the falls and it was fascinating to see how small they looked against the amount of water coming down the falls.

By now we were starting to feel tired and we still had a few hours of walking ahead of us so we didn't spend as long as we would have liked at Sutherland Falls and reluctantly we turned our backs to head back to where we had left our packs.  Once back at our packs we had an hours walk to Dumpling Hut which was a sight for sore eyes as we had been on our feet walking for 11 hours.  We found a bunk for the night and had a quick meal before thankfully rolling into our sleeping bags and were quickly asleep. The track from Dumpling Hut to Sandfly Point is reasonably flat and easy walking compared to the day before.  We made good time, leaving the hut at 7am and walking to our first stop at the Boat Shed.  This is where the first OTC group in 1965 had to cross a swollen river in flood but today there is a lovely big bridge across the wide, slow moving Arthur River for us to cross.

From the bridge we move away from the Arthur River and wind our way through the bush to the MacKay Falls and Bell Rock which is an enormous boulder that has been  hollowed out over time by the power of water and then turned upside down.  The hollowed out centre of Bell Rock is big enough to  comfortably hold 5 people (or 15 at a squash).

We were very aware of the time as our boat was leaving from Sandfly Point at 2pm and we didn't want to miss it so we only had time for a few photos and a quick snack at MacKay Falls before hitting the track again.  The track runs along side Lake Ada which is a large body of water formed by a landslide 900 years ago.  Today Lake Ada looked peaceful and serene with swans and ducks floating on the waters surface. As we neared Sandfly Point we stopped for a breather at Giants Gate Falls.

We met up with a group of day trippers at Giant Gate Falls and we envied them their light, day packs but we only had a few kilometres to go and time was ticking so on we went, counting the mile markers as we passed them. By the time we reached Sandfly Point, the feet were starting to feel tired but we were happy to have completed the 53.5 km journey before the boat arrived.

Without a sign of rain at all over the last four days, we felt priviledged to have spent time in such a beautiful part of  our country with a great group of people . 

#33 of 100 trips for 100 years - Rosella Ridge - River Track - Gold Miners Direct 19 February 2023

 

It promised to be another hot day but that didn't deter the 14 people who were keen for an up close look at Rosella Ridge in the Silver Peaks.  The pace was set early after leaving the cars and we made very good time along Green Ridge.  It helps that the track is so dry and in good condition which meant that we were able to walk and chat easily.  Each break in the trees was an opportunity for those of us (only two) for a short stop to reminisce about last weekend's Silver Peaks Half Marathon (#31/100 trips) that had seen us walking over this same track but in the opposite direction.  Everyone was feeling very warm by the time we reached Green Hut Site and were happy for a drink stop.

Feeling good after the break, it was straight uphill behind Green Hut Site to bushline where we were rewarded with views looking towards one of the high points in the Silver Peaks, Pulpit Rock.  The track climbs 160m from Green Hut Site to the turn off to Rosella Ridge.  The water gouged track is easy to follow up through the low growing scrub and it was during this part that we really started to notice the humidity. 

Some of the team opted to tackle the extra 100m climb to the top of Pulpit Rock while others of us (who had been there for lunch last weekend) chose to wait at the Rosella Ridge turnoff.  It was a nice half hour wait for the Pulpit Rock group to return and then the next section was down Rosella Ridge.  Rosella Ridge is an informal name which appeared in the 1980’s from a couple of club members who spotted a Rosella while walking on this ridge.  At the time it was erroneously referred to as ‘Parakeet Ridge’ until the late 1980's when it was changed to the more appropriate name of Rosella Ridge.

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Rosella Ridge is a long, defined ridge that has a number of 'bumps' with the track going up and over each bump.  The track is well maintained through the shoulder high scrub which offers some shade from the noon day sun. We reached the end 'bump' affectionately known by the informal name of 'Little Pulpit Rock' for a final rest and where we were able to look across to The Cat's Teeth on Rocky Ridge (trip #5/100trips). From this vantage point we were also able to take in 360 degree views of the Silver Peaks. 

Being a little early for lunch, we continued walking and entered the mature manuka and kanuka bush as it dropped gently at first 450m down to the Waikouaiti River where we would join the River Track.  The track down through the native bush is very pleasant with ferns and mossy undergrowth along a steeply sided ridge.  A piwakawaka/fantail followed us along the trail, enjoying the feast of microscopic bugs that we stirred up as we passed through.  Partway down the ridge we stopped for a lunch break, spread out along the track in the shade.  Once lunch was over, we were back on the track, passing a number of tracks that branch off down the sides of Rosella Ridge

By following Rosella Ridge all the way down to the Waikouaiti River we eventually met up with the River Track (#28/100 trips), We had last been on this track only a couple of weeks ago, however this time we were doing the track in reverse and it was surprising to see how much climbing the track does alongside the Waikouaiti River. 

We were feeling grateful to be in the bush as the heat and humidity was high.  It was also a relief to be beside the river as we were able to stop at the small side creeks and refill our nearly empty water bottles.  The cold water from the side creeks was refreshing and some of the group took the opportunity to dunk their hats in the cold water.  After  an hour walking along the River Track we reached the Goldminers Direct Track which is a steep 30 minute climb up a number of zig zags and steps to Mountain Road and the cars in 7 hours and 15km.

#32 of 100 trips for 100 years - OTMC Picnic Long Beach 12 February 2023

This one isn't really a tramping trip but it is a numbered trip so qualifies for a trip report.  Traditionally a club picnic was on the day after the OTMC marathon and was a good way for those involved to relax and recuperate.  In recovery mode from walking  the Silver Peaks half marathon yesterday, I was looking forward to a day in the sun at the beach.  The walk along the beach was relaxing and we stopped for a brief look at the rock climbers before making our way to the end of the beach near the caves.  There was a sea lion who had taken up residence in the shade so we kept our distance and set up chairs and picnic blankets near the dunes.

The weather was perfect for the beach with sunshine and no wind so the 14 of us were able to sit and happily chat before some of the group headed into the water for a swim while others enjoyed a paddle or explored the caves.

We watched the antics of another sea lion further down the beach lounging in the shallows before making it's way into the deeper waves.  Around mid afternoon people started packing up their picnic and headed back to the cars which left only a few of us to enjoy one last swim/paddle before walking back along the almost deserted beach.

#31 of 100 trips for 100 years - OTMC Silver Peaks Half Marathon 11 February 2023

Through the 1970's-2000's the OTMC Marathon has held legendary status for those wanting to test their fitness over the 60+km course through the Silver Peaks.  Nowadays part of the original course is not so easy to access as it goes through pine plantation and at nearly 40km long the half marathon is still a considerable challenge.  It was heartening to have eight people arrive for the 6am start of the Pineapple Track for what was sure to be a long and tiring day. 

The Pineapple Track climbs a steep 480m to the top of Flagstaff starting with native bush and eventually onto the tussock tops.  Starting in the dark through the bush and coming out into the tussock gave us a chance for a short stop to take in the sunrise and the beautiful coloured sky promising a warm day ahead. 

We didn't have time to linger for too long because we still had a long way to go.  Up the hill we went enjoying the sunrise and the wonderful cloud formations as we continued on to the top of Flagstaff.  It was here that we  stopped for a breather and drink at the top by the plane table.  A fitting place to stop with the plane table highlighting features on the city skyline, and was installed in 1973 by the OTMC after it's 50th anniversary and here we were, about to celebrate the 100th anniversary. 

By now the sun was up and with the first uphill section completed we were able to relax a little and regain our breath as we started downhill to the Bull Ring.  We regrouped at the Bull Ring before tackling the 6km road walk of Whare Flat Road  to Silver Stream which saw us drop 400m in height, effectively losing all the height we had gained. 

The road walk wasn't as bad as I had feared with the time passing quickly as we all took the opportunity to chat on this downhill section.  Being still early there was very little traffic on the gravel road and we were able to stop at the ford where one of our OTMC members, Trevor Mason, drowned while completing the OTMC marathon 15 years ago.  Unlike 15 years ago when the weather was atrocious and the river was rushing over the ford, today there was no water and we were able to cross with dry feet. A complete contrast to 15 years ago. 

Once at the bottom of the hill we climbed over the stile and walked alongside Silver Stream through the bush to the weir.  We crossed the weir before taking the track towards the Powder Hill turn off which is where the fun really began as the climb of 480m up Powder Hill is particularly steep and gnarly until the ridge is gained and the gradient eases off slightly.  Even though the upper part of the ridge is not as steep as lower down it continues to climb and fall as the track goes over a number of false summits before reaching the junction with Long Ridge. All the height we had gained climbing up Flagstaff, then losing as we headed downhill to Silver Stream, was gained again on Powder Ridge.  Stopping for another breather in the shade of the bush at the junction of Long Ridge we contemplated that we were half way through our journey and thankfully most of the climbing was behind us. The walk along Long Ridge is very pleasant as it follows the contour and is open grassy tops giving plenty of opportunity to take in the expansive views of the Silver Peaks and particularly our destination for lunch, Pulpit Rock.

The final push to Pulpit Rock involves a 120m climb which took us to a great place to sit and admire the views while having a well deserved lunch.  Despite there still being quite a distance to go, psychologically reaching Pulpit Rock was a big milestone in our journey as we could see our next obstacle, Swampy Summit which was the highest point of the half marathon and then not far behind, in the distance is Flagstaff and the end of our journey.  Knowing we still had a few hours of walking ahead of us, lunch was eaten reasonably quickly and we were off again. 

We dropped 120m down the ridge to Green Hut Site where we grabbed a few minutes for a drink and although feeling a little weary by now our spirits were high.  Green Hut Site is the site of the club's first hut built in 1933, 10 years after the club had started.  After a short break, we were off again, through the bush along Green Ridge.  At least this part of the track follows the contour so we were able to stretch our legs and make good time along the track.  Often the Green Ridge track can be muddy but with all the good weather of summer the track is very dry and hard underfoot. 

A stop at the turnoff to Swampy Summit was compulsory as we met up with our support person Jade who had walked in to meet us with a supply of water and lollies.  Gratefully we helped to relieve her of most of the weight in her pack as the water was greedily shared amongst us and the lollies were quickly devoured.  The next section of the journey involved another 300m climb up to Swampy Summit. Previous trips along this part of the track had involved ankle deep mud but again with a dry summer the track was dry with only the occasional muddy section that was easily avoided.  This made for reasonably quick walking until the terrain steepens as we approached the top of Swampy Summit.

 Taking shelter behind a building to avoid the wind, we regrouped for a final drink and snack stop.  It was a good feeling to know that most/all of the climbing was behind us and there only remained a few more kilometres between us and the finish.  Shouldering our bags for one last time we trudged along the gravel road along the top of Swampy before taking the Swampy Summit track to Flagstaff.  Deceptively there are  a couple of small ups and downs on the track which taxed tired legs.  Finally we reached the Flagstaff turn off and it was all down hill for the last few kilometres, dropping 400m to where we had started 11 hours and nearly 40km (with 1600m of climbing) earlier.

#30 of 100 trips for 100 years - Cloud Forest Of Leith - Escarpment Track - Three Peaks Track 4 February 2023

 

When the thermometer hits more than 30°C the most sensible thing to do would be a swim at the beach, instead we opted for a walk - up a hill from Sullivans Dam up to Mt Cargill / Kapukataumahaka via the Cloud Forest and Escarpment Tracks and return via the Three Peaks Track. We had already been over the Cloud Forest and  Escarpment Tracks in November during the Trip #13 Complete Skyline and I was interested to see if our dry summer had any effect on how much mud we would encounter on the Escarpment Track.

Maybe it was the heat or maybe it was the reputation of the notoriously muddy Escarpment Track but whatever the reason, there ended up being only two of us brave enough to face both the heat and the Escarpment Track.  We started our adventure by walking around Sullivans Dam with the surrounding hills reflected in it's dark and tranquil waters. We stopped for a few minutes at the outlet of the dam where we had, had lunch on trip #15 Leith Saddle-Morrison Burn-Sullivans Dam  to enjoy the calm and peace of the place before following the track into the relative cool of the bush and continued around the side of the dam to the start of the Cloud Forest of Leith Track.

The Cloud Forest of Leith track has become overgrown in places with ferns covering the board walk making it difficult to see where to put your feet, although mostly this part of the track is relatively straightforward and easy to negotiate.  Despite being in the shade of the native bush the temperature was rising and the sweat was starting to flow with the constant uphill gradient. Emerging from the bush, into the full sun at the power lines we were rewarded with great views towards Waitati and Warrington and around to Mihiwaka and Mt Kettle. 

After a short drink stop we crossed the open ground under the power lines before heading back into the bush and onto the Escarpment Track.  The condition of the track hasn't improved much since our last visit in November.  The undergrowth of ferns is quite thick along the track, making it difficult to see your feet along with the track and the ever present obstacles of tree roots, fallen trees and mud. Thankfully with all the dry weather recently there was only minimal mud and what mud there is, is firm and porridge like so we clambered up Pigeon Rock with relatively clean boots.   As always Pigeon Rock is a perfect place to stop for a drink and snack while taking in the uninterrupted views of Swampy Summit and around to the northern Silver Peaks, Mt Watkin, Blueskin Bay and the Kakanuis in the distance. 

The next part of the track involves finding your way through the pine plantation which is not as easy as it once was.  The pine trees are now a few years old and being taller than a person means that you need to keep a close eye on the markers to ensure you continue in the right direction.  It feels a little like walking in circles but by sticking to the makers we were rewarded with arriving on the Mt Cargill road with no wrong turns. 

By now the sun was high in the sky and the temperature was pushing into the 30°C's and we had a kilometre or so of road walking ahead of us but on the plus side - we had done all the uphill and there was only downhill ahead of us now.  Not wanting to be longer than necessary in the full force of the sun we turned right and walked down the road 15 minutes to the Three Peaks track.  The first part of Three Peaks track is a lovely section with the trees interlocking branches overhead creating an open green tunnel to walk through. Eventually we reached the end of the tunnel and emerging back into the sun, on another four wheel drive road which we followed back to the power lines. 

Now we had completed a large loop and were on the final home stretch so we stopped for a short drink stop and then back into the shade of the bush.  Going down through the ferny undergrowth is no easier than going up, still can't see our feet but at least we had gravity on our side.  Before we knew it we had reached Sullivans Dam and then it was a short walk around the outside of the dam to complete another loop and we were back at the car, happy to finish a very hot 10.5 km walk in 3.5 hours. 

#28 of 100 trips for 100 years - Silver Peaks River Track 29 January 2023

The Silver Peaks is the OTMC's most visited tramping area and the addition of the River Track linking tracks from the Waikouaiti River up the side ridges to the back bone of the Silver Peaks, Rocky Ridge (trip 5/100 trips) has really opened the area for a larger range of tramping trips.  Today's trip is special because Arthur led us on a guided tour of the River Track to Philip J Cox Memorial Hut, explaining the philosophy and issues of the work he has done on the River Track, and the improvements that continue to be made for all trampers benefit.  It was testimony of how important the Silver Peaks and the River Track are to the OTMC that eighteen people turned up for this special trip.

The day was hot and sunny so it was with some relief that we imediately headed into the shade of the bush and down the Goldminers Direct Track to the Waikouaiti River.  As the name suggests the Goldminers Direct Track takes you directly down the ridge to the river and is very steep in places.  Arthur has done a large amount of work replacing some of the steeper sections with zig zags which make for easier travel although care still needs to be taken on some sections of the track. We reached the river at the bottom in a little over half an hour where we were treated to the first of Arthur's explanations and stories as to the building of the part of this section of track.  Arthur explained the significance of the track signs and what we could expect over the next section of track.

I had been over the River Track a number of years ago when the track had only had rudimentary markings and was just a vague route through the bush, and I was keen to see the changes that had been made. The River Track winds it's way through the mature manuka bush with many sections of extensive benching meaning the track had been dug into the bank while in other parts, the track has been built up to avoid boggy areas making for a more level and smoother track to walk on.

During the walk we learnt that Arthur has spent many hours working on the track approximately (a conservative) 400 days over the past 10 years, with some help from others but mostly on his own. Some sections have required a large amount of building up with rocks dug out of earlier sections and all of this track has been hand built and funded by Arthur.  The amount of work that has gone into the River Track is phenomenal and it was a privilege to walk the track with Arthur as our guide. 

A morning tea stop was called in the shade at the Hunters Track junction and once we had rested we continued following Arthur down the River Track, crossing a couple of small side creeks including Cats Teeth Creek.  All the time we were given a running commentary of how each part of the track had been constructed and the obstacles that had to be overcome.  Once we reached the end of the benched  River Track, we continued on through the bush, following Arthur's makers.  This unformed part of the track was a privileged to walk as it gave us a good appreciation of the amount of work that was still required to complete the track. 

The temperature continued to rise throughout the morning and the steep sides of the valley seemed to radiate that heat inwards. One good thing in our favor was that we stayed in the shade of the bush all the way.  Just before the track begins to climb up towards Philip J Cox Memorial Hut, it drops to cross a significant side creek with some lovely large rocks that have created some nice pools.  Here some of the group took the opportunity to throw cold water over their head while others submerged completely for a refreshing dip. 

From the creek, the real work began for us as we climbed our way up around 300m to the Philip J Cox Memorial Hut. Without the benched track, the pace slowed and we were forced to climb over tree tree roots, sidle around slippery slopes and scramble up steep banks which made the going much slower.  We passed through a lovely section of tall tree ferns and another of twisted Fuchsia  trunks with the high leaves keeping the sun from reaching the ground beneath.  Still the track continued to wind it's way up hill through the manuka nnd sweltering under the oppressive heat we finally reached the Philip J Cox Memorial Hut in the blazing sun. Most of the group headed to the edge of the bush to sit in the shade for lunch.  Once lunch was out of the way it was time for a small ceremony to thank Arthur, on behalf of all those who have used the River Track, followed by cake.

Once we had all had a look around the Philip J Cox Memorial Hut, the compulsory team photo was taken before we shouldered our bags to begin the descent down Yellow Spur to the Waikouaiti River.

The track down Yellow Spur mostly follows the ridge downhill and is steep in places, dropping 300m with a rope conveniently placed in the more difficult places.  One section at the bottom involves climbing down a large muddy rock wall with most people finding the easiest way was to abseil down backwards holding onto another conveniently placed rope.   Once over this hurdle it was a pleasure to douse water over our heads and soak our feet in the cold water of the Waikouaiti River.

From the river, the final section of track heads straight back up the hill via The Tunnels Track to the cars.  This is a particularly steep track that climbs around 250m up to through the pine plantation to almost the same height as the Phillip J Cox Memorial Hut which we had left only a short time ago.  The tall pine trees helped to keep us in the shade and while the gradient was unrelenting the wide track made for reasonably easy walking. 

Despite the heat and steepness of the Tunnels Track, it was only 30 minutes from the river to the road and into the blazing sun.  The general consensus from everyone on the trip was that Arthur has done a phenomenal amount of work on the River Track and we are in awe of his dedication to seeing it completed. Saying thank you Arthur, just doesn't seem enough when you see the amount of work and consider how much time and energy Arthur has put into the River Track, providing a valuable alternative access into  the Silver Peaks.