21.14 Queenstown: Moonlight Trail between Arthurs Point and Ben Lomond Saddle: Yikes! Another tough day in paradise.
The tucked away trailhead, when we found it, allowed us to approach Ben Lomond from the opposite side of Queenstown. We commenced at Arthurs Point and spent six to seven hours on the trail, swamped by giant mountains above the Shotover River. In New Zealand, this part of the river plays host to the jets (boats) that race through the canyon and swirl around, apparently thrilling thousands of visitors. To wake to a nice view is most soothing; hot tea would be wonderful. Meantime, back at the ranch, Jen trudges up a stiff climb. Unfortunately, the conditions are dry and the snow-capped mountains are few. Other than that, no complaints. Standing above the Shotover River, the early morning light causes the water to sparkle. Jenni was overcome with an almost spiritual feeling, so she explains, as we walked along the mountain edges towards Ben Lomond. It was the endpoint of our previous hike. We were able to get a different perspective by being in the places that...