"A helpful track zigzags the creek"

That's what the DOC (Department of Conservation) guide reckons. They're right but there aren't many options. You'd come a cropped trying to navigate the stream and the surrounding scrub is hardy and impenetrable.

As we moved east we slowly shed clothes. First the beanies, then jackets and by the time we'd descended to Hawdon Hut those with them on shed their long johns.

It was a speedy trip from our camp site to Hawdon Hut. With a couple GPS, maps and compas we'd have been ok but I prefer to get through before the weather.

After Hawdon Hut it was pretty much a walk in the Arthur's Pass National park. Those long river flats that go on forever.

A superb weekend. It feels like I've been away a lot longer. But reality is biting and I must prepare for work tomorrow.

Yesterday's Walker Pass