While we knew it was cold overnight, we woke to see that it had lightly snowed in the higher altitudes, with dustings of snow clearly visible on the Mount Pelion East from the deck of Pelion Hut. Waking to no rain, this added excitement to the day ahead with the anticipation of being able to walk, explore and play in the snow throughout today's walk. As a group we enjoyed a relaxing breakfast before packing up camp and heading out on the Track together, looking forward to what the day may bring.
Snow on the ridgeline.
As we departed Pelion Hut, we followed Douglas Creek and could hear the creek flow as it trickled over the rocks. However, the trickle began to get louder and louder with us discovering a small waterfall within the creek sliding down slabs of rocks. It was an impressive little location to take a break and relax for awhile.
Douglas Creek Waterfall
After enjoying Douglas Creek, we continued along the Track enjoying the views on offer and climbing up into the junction for Mt Ossa (Tasmania's Highest Mountain) & Mount Pelion East.
This junction was a decision point location for us, which way do we go ... up or down. While some members of the group decided to continue along the Overland Track and into tonight's campsite, the majority of the group decided to head up towards Mount Pelion East and enjoy some time in the snow. While Mount Ossa was a consideration prior to commencing the Overland Track, standing at the junction it was obvious that the wind was higher around the peak and with the peak covered in cloud, visibility from the summit would be minimal ... so Mount Pelion East became our next destination.
Preparing for Mount Pelion East exploration
Walking in the Snow
SNOW PLAY
"Your safe with me ...
or maybe not!!!"
Rainbow Views from Mount Pelion East
It was a wonderful experience underneath the summit of Mount Pelion East, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to relax for a while without a pack and simply play in the snow. During our time in the snow, you could see the varying weather conditions as clouds regularly moved across blocking the view of the summit as well as restricting the surrounding views before clearing and opening up .. only to return and hide everything once again.
With our snow play complete, we returned to the junction, picked up our packs and continued our journey along the Overland Track and into tonight's campsite. Today was a wonderful day's walk offering impressive views of the surrounding landscape and finer details of the National Park.
Snow Views
Kia Ora Hut
Kia Ora Hut
Social time within the Hut
Rangers Hut at Kia Ora Hut
Campsite
"Yep ... We're still tired!!!"
"Goodnight."
The snow and the weather except yesterday's one day of rain. I like the snow.
My feet as I cannot feel them anymore!!!
Seeing the snow and looking down to see the clouds below you.
