A fine, frosty start to the day and two vans packed with enthusiastic trampers.  We commenced our walk after morning tea and paused at the "wishing" pool whose surface resembled a ghostly mirror with branches and other vegetation bleached white by the minerals in the water.  The Redwoods which were planted in 1901 towered above us and we passed stands of huge gum trees with silvered trunks as we climbed steadily up the first ridge. 

We had to stand by the side of the track when a horse and rider approached.  A tense moment when the horse seemed "spooked" possibly by our walking poles, but his rider quickly calmed him down and they moved on.  We had lunch in a grassed area surrounded by trees and then split into two groups - those who wanted to go faster and those who preferred a more relaxed pace.  Perhaps the fast group wanted more time to enjoy the coffee break back at the Redwoods entrance. 

Another small drama occurred when John disappeared down a steep slope and ended up slightly battered and bloodied but no broken bones or serious injury. We were able to cope with the long uphill trudge  through the pine forest after Death Valley without further mishap. 

Distance covered was 12 kms and we were back in Hamilton before 6.00 pm with boots that didn't require cleaning - always a bonus.

A most enjoyable day thanks to the efforts of our leaders - Keith, Dianne and Pam.

Brenda