Roy's Peak viewed from across the city on Mount Iron, an elevation gain of 4,030 feet.
At the peak, looking towards Mount Aspiring. We viewed this backdrop from Ben Lomond in Queenstown,
100 miles distant, two weeks before.
"Boy-hero" has to try match the editor, usually fails.
Whenever we visit Wanaka, New Zealand, the hike to the peak of Roy's Mountain is a must do. The concern
is that it's becoming more strenuous each time. We're sure the mountain hasn't got any steeper or higher.
The obvious thought is that perhaps it has something to do with us and that's a worry although who likes
to admit it. Nevertheless, as I explained to Jen, who found it tough (and rightly so), at over 4,000 feet
elevation gain in 5 miles (one-way), it has to be a struggle. In addition, perhaps the mood was wrong,
the energy level was low on the day, the kids were a worry, the dogs were restless, the weather was hot...I hope
that's a good enough answer otherwise we're in a little trouble.
In the early stages, grass trail is a treat, Lake Wanaka not too bad either.
Using the goat path as we close in on the peak.
An interesting spot as we made our way down from the peak. Missed it previously.
What a hike! What an experience. On a perfect day, we reached the top in about 2.5 hours. It is
extremely steep which provides a good challenge, something I particularly enjoy. The path is a fine one,
the exposure to the surrounding mountains and town, the fabulous Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring (much of it)
is always on view. The latter is snow-covered and distinctive and visible from about half-way up the mountain.
When we hiked Ben Lomond in Queenstown, another outstanding experience, we had views of Mount Aspiring and
its glacier, too. For the return journey, we ran part of the way down which provides another facet to hiking.
It keeps one nimble, alert, helps the fitness level and quickens the hike—most of the views we have already
enjoyed by that stage.
Mount Aspiring and glacier in 'one's face'.
Seated at the peak, not excited to return the long way down. Hang glider?
A lake view with a massive cloud reflecting off the surface.
There is some flexibility towards the top where one can choose to take the more gradual trail
or use the goat paths—the latter provide a slightly more direct access to the peak as well as a little
thrill. Our calves were bursting as they almost cried out to ease off as we negotiated the steep
inclines. When all is said and done, nothing beats the successful return home, seating oneself and basking
in the incredible feeling of being a little sore, a little stiff, a little tired and extremely uplifted.
How and why this feels that way is above our pay grades but it's nevertheless, a feeling
indescribable and climactic. We'll keep working at it and take it whenever we can.
Jen getting 'a head' with another 1,500 feet or so to go. Who's counting?
Serenity and beauty on the day.
With complete exposure on the track, there are no trees, the car park was in view the whole period.
Whilst we were never far from it laterally, the distance increased mostly vertically until at the peak,
we could see mere specks for cars. At all times, we could see the antenna at the peak—the elevation gain
remaining, but for the closing stages, always felt a little intimidating, and at times, a lot. Along
the way, we saw some interesting crowned birds and only a couple of sheep. On previous occasions,
the lower 2,000 feet section had an abundance of animals. However, all was not lost because they left
plenty for us to remember them by in the form of near-fertilizer.
Okay, okay. We 'wuz' here...big deal. (Car park to right-rear of Jenni's left knee and below a 'little'.)
Dominating the tiny peak in all her glory...well, something like that.
This is a track that appears to be gaining in popularity. Each time we have visited, the number of hikers
has been greater. Once again, there are many European hikers, Israelis and the usual mix of New Zealanders and
crazy-New Zealanders. Clearly, they are a very physical and hardy nation. It is understandable why such a country
with a small population excels in sporting events. Who can forget the conqueror of Mount Everest, what's his
name again?...Sir Edmund Hilary, thank you.
What's a photo from Lake Manapouri doing here? The editor would not hear of it...rightly so although
the picture does something for me. So when we were hanging on an edge, I was pulling up the editor
in a tense situation. I decided that might be a good time to re-ask for permission. Bad boy!
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
No comments:
Post a Comment