Silverpeaks 23/24 August

Birds of a feather

Philip J Cox Hut

A bit late in the posting thereof, but that is what happens when the website goes down and then you go away without your computer. Anyway better late then never. Weather forecast predicted an overcast and SW breeze kind of weekend, not too bad for tramping. Four trampers , just right for the Philip J Cox Hut, a 4 bunker. Down the road, Jane insisting on a coffee stop just south of Waikouaiti from the coffee caravan/ whitebaiter set up, we just went along with it. Up Double Hill Rd and Mountain Rd, getting rougher all the time. We parked just near the locked gate, got changed and walked along the road for the 6km to the start of the Yellow Ridge Track. Its a great day, sun’s out and there is no wind. Down the track to the South Branch of the Waikouaiti R, we were into the native vegetation now and the track was slippery and steep, a bit of a grind to the ridge and then just along to the new 4 bunk hut. After lunch and unpacking we went off to explore the track still marked on the older maps leading down a ridge starting from where the old Yellow Hut used to be…..only to discover that it isn’t there anymore. With only unimaginable bush bashing on offer, we headed back to the Philip J Cox Hut for a fairly relaxed remainder of the afternoon. After a very comfortable night we were away early, keen to make up for the lack of tramping the previous day. Up the ridge to the top and turning north we had a good look around The Gap, that landmark visible from the main road when looking west. Photo’s were taken before heading on to the ABC Cave. A decent sized cave which has had a floor, some seating and a bench built in it. It would sleep 4 easily and will be going on the Trip List for another time. We carried on and an early lunch was had at Jubilee Hut. The weather was quite warm now and a few liters were lost climbing the Devil’s Staircase. The landscape is very dramatic here and we thoroughly enjoyed the day. The views from the to of the ridge were awesome and duly recorded on cameras. Along and along, getting a bit foot weary now, down the ridge and along to the site of the old Green Hut where another late lunch was had. Another hour or so saw us back out to Mountain Rd and a short walk on we found the car and headed back down for an icecream at Palmerston and home. This weekend was very enjoyable, the weather was good and we appreciated the varied and often spectacular landscape right in our own backyard. Thanks to Murray for driving and Jane and John for sharing a good weekend. Robbie

Potential pigeon pie

View from the loo

Spot the Jubilee Hut

This cave makes me happy

ABC Cave

Jubilee Hut

On TB lll 26

Rock and Pillars from TBlll27

Across to Pulpit Rock