Waking up to an overcast day where the rain had stopped, and the clouds had lifted overnight, we discovered that we had been camping in the shadows of Barn Bluff as it towered above the hollow, dominating the landscape from the front deck of Waterfall Valley Hut. It was stunning, and as we started and continued today's trek, Barn Bluff was like a protective beacon rising in the background reminding us of the distance we'd travelled and the natural beauty of the National Park.
While undulating, the walk this morning was dominated by boardwalk and pleasantly enjoyable. The views were spectacular, the conditions perfect for walking and it was wonderful to simply be out in the alpine environment exploring the National Park. After a couple of hours of enjoyable walking, we dropped our packs at a junction and headed out to discover and enjoy Lake Will. Once again, with Barn Bluff in the background, Lake Will was an impressive side track we appreciated.
Lake Will
Back on track & heading towards Lake Windermere
After enjoying the sights of Lake Will we strolled along the Overland Track dominated by alpine vegetation, lakes and endless views towards Lake Windermere and tonight's destination Windermere Hut another impressive campsite with a huge accommodation facility and large group campsite area.
Lake Windermere
Following the boardwalk from the shores of Lake Windermere into Windermere Hut and tonight's campsite.
Windermere Hut
Our Campsite
Campsite Sunset & Nocturnal Visitor
When it comes to an expedition, there are a lot of conversations and actions required from concept to completion ...
Planning
Training
Skill Acquistion
Logistics
Communication
Promotion
Recruitment
Risk Management
Nutrition
Group Management
Navigation
Transport
Contingency Plans
1st Aid
Water
Personal & Group Equipment
These are just some of the considerations required for an expedition to evolve from an idea into action.
While all of these logistics are essential expedition ingredients which lead to individual & group growth, development, experience, confidence, comprehension and hopefully success, it is also important to enjoy the entire journey from concept to completion and have fun along the way and this is one aspect that was already mastered prior to conception. Our youth certainly know how to have fun and enjoy each other's company through a variety of different outdoor environments and challenges, and the Overland Track Expedition was no different. Everyone had fun along the way ....
Seeing the hut & campsite at the end of the day and enjoying a swim in Lake Windermere.
The anxiety of the daily & overall kilometres. I am enjoying this hike.
The memory of that possum getting into the tent (last night at Waterfall Valley Hut) and now I don’t like possums!!!
