Barker Hut, Arthurs Pass

Our plan was to go climb Mt Murchison, but very warm temps stymied the climb. Instead we ended up having two magnificent days tramping and one drizzly morning escaping from western Arthurs Pass.

Beginning up the Waimakariri River

Ascending the upper White Valley

Steph and I had a delightful walk into Barker Hut, via the Waimak and White rivers. The head of the White river was simply incredible. Amazingly steep rocky buttresses, tumbling glaciers and delightful tumbling river.

Barker Hut at dusk

Instead we went for a stroll up a nearby hillock, with one nice steep bit to savour. We had great views of Mt's Harper, Speight and Murchison.

Plodding up the start of the hillock ridge

Steph enjoys a short steep section

On the top of our Hillock, Mt Murchison and White Glacier behind

Descending the little steepish bit

Descending the sketchy rib beneath Barker Hut back to the White River

The return trip down to Carrington Hut was savoured with a couple of swims, some sunbathing and exploring side streams for waterfalls.

Drizzle on the Waimak

On Sunday morning the bluebird sky had been replaced with a grey drizzle and cool breeze, so we made a quick retreat down the multiple fords of the Waimakariri River.