by kramster » Wed 30 Apr, 2008 12:53 pm
Just to report that the Fagus is in fine form up on Tarn Shelf.
Our original plans were downgraded a little (from 2 nights to 1) over the ANZAC long weekend.
Arrived at Lake Dobson at 3PM on Friday, then walked to Twilight Tarn (via Lk Webster) that afternoon in the marvelous drizzly rain - was actually great walking weather (as the rain keeps you from getting to hot and sweaty, and the lakes and clearings are amazing in the cloud too). Took just under 2 hours all up (including several breaks).
As the rain persisted, I made the executive decision (or lazy decision) to keep the tent dry (not really wanting to carry the soggy version there of), and we stayed in the hut for the night. Quite surprised that there were not more people (only 3 others overnight, and maybe 20 alltogether on Tarn Shelf).
Saturday was a little clearer, but still overcast. We strolled up the hill to Twisted Tarn (some great pandanni and pencil pine stands up there), then along to Tarn Shelf for some fagus spotting (what we'd really come to see). Was really nice to see the whole hilside in a display of bright yellow/orange. It appears that the fagus on Tarn Shelf turns sooner than that at slightly lower altitudes (such as Lk Fenton). We were in no rush, so spent about 2 hours wandering along the shelf, stopping regularly for obligatory photo opportunities. Had lunch at the Rodway Day Shelter, then back down to Lake Dobson to complete the (somewhat leisurly) circuit.
Photos to be uploaded soon...