Silver Peaks, 14-10-12
With the cars parked at the locked barrier, a few showed their skills at kicking a flat rugby ball around which had been dumped along with other rubbish on the side of the road. Not a pretty sight.
A five kilometre road walk bought us to the start of the Tunnels Track.Underfoot was wet and slippery on the steep descent to the Waikouaiti River South Branch but most were able to stay upright. After the below knee-deep crossing of the river we made our way up the ridge through the trees and bush until we came to the new 4 bunk Philip Cox Memorial Hut where we had No1 lunch at 11:45 am. It is a delightful hut and a fitting memorial to a well-liked man who was known to some of the members of the party.
Onwards and upwards, the Yellow Hut site was bypassed as we headed up to the junction of Rocky Ridge and the Gap. Because of the time factor, all selected to walk along Rocky Ridge so didn’t venture over to The Gap. Conditions were cool and windy but clear on the ridge where at times we became separated as we followed the vague tracks over scrubby undulating ground while the keen photographers had plenty of opportunities to get some scenic shots.
The Hermit’s cave was sighted off track but time didn’t allow us to visit it. Jubilee Hut could also be seen in the valley.
Lunch No2 was taken in the tussocks out of the wind. Later after leaving the ridge, we passed by Pulpit Rock and on towards the Green Hut site for a quick rest stop and snack. The wind had calmed down considerably by now.
At about 6pm, thirteen trampers arrived back at the cars after more than an eight hour circuit in the Silver Peaks
Thanks to Browyn, Robbie, Noel, Linda, Ross, Bill, Mark, Colan, Els, Dave, Wendy and Maurice for the company on a great trip in a great place.
Phyllis
