Bushcamp to Bushcamp
28.9 miles
Mile 1463.3
From camp I followed Bush Stream into the mountains for about an hour before beginning a steep ascent towards Crooked Spur Hut.
After passing the hut it was another hour of climbing before reaching the saddle where the views were a plenty.
From the saddle I headed back down into the valley, where I cruised along rolling hills past Stone and Royal Hut.
As I began my ascent towards Stag Saddle, the highest point on the TA at 6316 ft., it began to rain…just my luck.
Fortunately, the rain let up before I reached the top, leaving only the wind to hinder my progress.
From the saddle the vista was exhilarating. I could see Lake Tekapo sprawling below in its bright blue splendor, with jagged cloud capped mountains standing guard in its rear.
The ridge walk down was one of my favorite sections of trail yet.
When I reached the bottom I continued through rolling grassy hills.
Finally, I stopped for the night on a hill overlooking the lake.
Cheers!
I absolutely love reading your posts. But your pictures are phenomenal! What are you using to take such fantastic photos?
What do you use as your guide so you know what’s coming up next, such as the having to hitch into town etc.
I’m also wondering how you remember all the names of lakes, towns etc since you put on so many miles each day.
Thank you for sharing such beautiful photos, stories and experiences with us watching from home.
I’m glad Erik showed my your posts last year so I could start following your travels.
Lorna
Thank you Lorna! I use my iPhone for the photos…it’s hard to take a bad picture when the scenery is this good. As for my guide, I use a phone app called Guthooks. It’s basically a map with a gps overlay and many waypoints such as water sources, campgrounds, town, etc. It also allows users to make and share notes on waypoints, which gives me some good insight on what to expect. Its an invaluable resource for sure! It’s also how I remember all of the names of things. Thanks for following!
Wow!
I think I want to go to New Zealand!
Do have any recommendations for fine resort hotels, gourmet dining and good scenic driving?
Great photos as usual Austin.
Take care,
John
Haha good one…I can recommend some solid trails!
From a hiking perspective, the wide open vistas of the south island looks a lot more fun than the “green tunnel” of the north island.
But I’ll bet it’s windy!!!
Glad you’re having a great time.
The south has been a muuuuuch more enjoyable experience than the north. Vistas for days!
Truly epic views today, Austin. Friggin amazing.
Thanks Jay!