I’m sure it will come as no surprise that I had a magnificent time, so much so that I extended my walk and had a couple of nights at Pine Valley. The scenery and weather was amazing for winter, unfortunately I walked into Lake St Clair just as the snow was settling so missed out on a true winter wonderland. My highlight was hearing 3 lyrebirds in the Du Cane rainforest (I know they are not endemic to Tasmania, but they are my favourite bird so it was a real treat to hear them singing the black currawong song). I’ve uploaded my photos here but posted a few favourites below;
https://flic.kr/s/aHsmF6nV4t
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The huts were a complete surprise (with regards to how fancy they were), and many times I thought I was glamping it a bit too well! It was definitely one of my easier walk (the weather was too kind to me), but the huts made it so nice to be able to dry out clothes and cook dinner out of the weather.
My total pack weight was just under 19kg for the 9 days with snow shoes. I was on the lighter end of weight compared to many, but if anything I feel I had more kit (for example I sleep on 2 mats in winter, had 4 pairs of gloves, carried a dedicated PLB AND etrex AND iPhone, took 8kg food and bought back a full days worth despite extending my time out there).. It was interesting to see what gear other people choose to carry.
Microspikes and poles definitely, there was ice along the entire path the first day. I’d also carry snow shoes again in winter despite not using them (not many had them).. The current snow conditions up there look pretty solid. I didn’t take my spikes off the whole walk and didn’t fall once (high fracture risk so can’t take the chance). I also managed to keep my socks dry for the first 7 days thanks to my poles (good puddle depth determiners!) but had to admit defeat when the creek level was mid thigh near the end
![Mr. Green :mrgreen:](./images/smilies/icon_mrgreen.gif)
I can see how people can become flooded in.
And be prepared for company if you choose to sleep in the huts. I only had one night to myself, which was a real surprise for me as I rarely see others when I hike in Victoria. But I enjoyed the conversations, and chose to wear ear plugs versus deal with a wet tent
![Laughing :lol:](./images/smilies/icon_lol.gif)
But yes, probably 4+ each night in the huts and I passed maybe an average of 4-8 people a day?
Feel free to ask if you’ve any questions that I can help with!
(PS.. the accommodation and D&M (and her cooking) were AWESOME. I was so thankful that they were flexible so I could stay out there longer.)