Starting among the Matagouri, Steph and I weaved our way up the valley. It tried to rain a few times, but most concerning were the powerful wind gusts that nearly blew us off our feet..
Higher, we weaved our way upstream and through a lovely stand of native beech forest. There was a steep scree to climb to get on the spur, then it was great views all the way up towards the summit.
As I trudged through some firm snow toward the top, I saw steph ahead crest the ridge before scurrying back to put on some storm gear.. The wind looked ferrocious.. Then it hit us with a vengance. Graupel snow (think frozen peas) whipped up by 100km+ gales stung our bodies as we fell to the ground and held on for dear life. Steph even had to hide behind her pack, such was the intensity of the pellet onslaught.
Glissading and Scree running away, it took another hour or so before reaching the bush where we had respite from the wind.. No summit, but an interesting experience!
Higher, we weaved our way upstream and through a lovely stand of native beech forest. There was a steep scree to climb to get on the spur, then it was great views all the way up towards the summit.
As I trudged through some firm snow toward the top, I saw steph ahead crest the ridge before scurrying back to put on some storm gear.. The wind looked ferrocious.. Then it hit us with a vengance. Graupel snow (think frozen peas) whipped up by 100km+ gales stung our bodies as we fell to the ground and held on for dear life. Steph even had to hide behind her pack, such was the intensity of the pellet onslaught.
Glissading and Scree running away, it took another hour or so before reaching the bush where we had respite from the wind.. No summit, but an interesting experience!
Red hill is the highest snowy nubbin on the far left..
About to get blasted by Graupel and 100kmh winds..
Cheese!! Chucky and Steph. Alive despite our best efforts..
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