Tuesday 23 November
The forecast for Monday was for heavy rain and possible flooding all day. All we received were a few scuds that hardly wet the ground. Tuesday's forecast didn't really concern the Gaiter Girls, as we set off early, up the Beechmont, mountain road to our starting point.
The morning was cloudy and very humid. It rained prior to our arrival. Looking through the trees and across the valley, we could see a dark grey mass heading our way. Would it divert or fizzle out? We aren't concerned by showers so continued climbing upwards to the 'glorious views' mentioned in our notes.
On reaching the narrow valley floor, there was a choice of turning onto the right or left trail. Consulting our map we decided going right would allow us to complete a circuit.
Causeway No 1, covered with rushing water from the overnight rain. So lovely to have the stepping stones. The dripping rainforest, glistening leaves, birdsong was overwhelmingly beautiful.
Causeway No 2
At times the sunlight found a gap in the cloud mass and intensified the shimmering green leaves.
Causeway No 3
View to the R.
Close up.
Cecilia leading the way.
View to the left.
It was our lucky day. Cecilia lives locally and was out on her morning walk. We got chatting and she offered to take us along her favourite part of the creek. We about turned, recrossed our 3 causeways and and then crossed another 4 or 5.
Absolutely spectacular, joyful walking of every step!
Our turn around point and farewell to Cecilia who continued home up the steep side of the valley.
A lovely sight on an open grassy stretch.
Our return ascent commences.
Listen to the constant sounds of the Aussie bush throughout summer, which accompanied us back up the trail.
I would love to read your comment.
We have vowed to return.
Wednesday however brought the deluges predicted for Monday and as I write this morning, heavy rain is again falling. The creek would be a raging torrent. The Meterorologists are warning that this will be the pattern for summer.
The Hungry Hikers had a similar day planned for yesterday [Wed]. At 5 am the rain was so heavy we quickly called a 'snuggle up with your book' day. With 60 mm falling in 12 hours, it was the correct call.
Our view during the rain.
So nice to see your summer photos. Hopefully this rain will mean less fires.
ReplyDeleteThe rain has definitely meant less fires but of course it has overdone itself and now flooding is affecting liveihoods in some areas.
DeleteYour adventure made me smile--- Also remembered a time when I rode a motorcycle onto a water crossing like that one and tipped over. That was a long time ago.
ReplyDeleteA young lad [17, on his way to last day of school] rode through, but didn't fall off.The back of his clothes didn't look the best. We hope he had a change of clothes. Actually we discovered his Mum was Cecilia. It wasn't his usual route to school.
DeleteSo green, so lush, so beautiful along that hiking route! But that rain you are getting, that's lots! Rain has been making the news here in Canada on both the west and east coast. It has fallen in unprecedented amounts. There is a new terminology for it "Atmospheric River"!
ReplyDeleteYes, I have been following the floods. We have a friend at Chilliwack, north of Abbotsford. At least we don't have the chill of winter with our floods.
DeleteI still miss seeing the rainforests really come alive in your summer, they were not as good when we were there in your winter
ReplyDeleteI don't think you would enjoy the humidity that comes with summer in the north! It is totally energy sapping.
DeleteIt's always good to get the local perspective! I also loved the glimpse of the kangaroos. I'm always in favor of a snuggle up with your book day.
ReplyDeleteBy chance, I actually had a book to read and for once I ignored the long list of 'must do's' to be done.
DeleteHow nice to have those stepping stones and a special guide. Good photo of you soaking your tootsies, Helen! All that rain was definitely a book day.
ReplyDeleteWe are going back to relax and picnic on a rock slab. There will be time to soak the tootsies for longer. After this weeks rain it will be all very washed out, so we may have to wait a month or so.
DeleteI enjoyed your hike by the stream. Really loved the kangaroos. Great photos.
ReplyDeleteHello to you in North Carolina. We regularly see kangaroos on our hikes, but they never fail to make us feel excited to see them.
ReplyDelete