Aka “Not so-speedy” day-trip to Angelus peak
Once again 3 whippersnappers dusted off their running shoes for a quick daytrip in NLNP. This time the objective was Angelus Peak, hopefully to see off unfinished business from an attempt on 1 March 2009 when 5 intrepid trampers (Ruth H, Carole C, Pat H, Mike D and I) aimed for the same objective as part of the club’s 75th anniversary celebrations. On that occasion the weather was less than clement and we declined the peak but nevertheless had an interesting day doing the Speargrass Creek/Robert Ridge loop, calling at Angelus Hut to enjoy lunch sheltered from the elements.
Brian weighing the odds of crossing Speargrass Creek dryshod versus copping a wet arse
We were underway from Mt Robert carpark at 0915 and headed up the Speargrass Track, taking a snack and drink break at the bridge. By the time we got going again it was obvious that the “speed tramp” had become just “a tramp”. The sky was busy for a good part of the day as the rangers flew loads of firewood into Angelus Hut and carried out backloads of “takeaways”.
Malcolm and Tony soak up the ambience in the head of Speargrass Creek
After a latish lunch at the hut, we headed off for Sunset Saddle, skirting Hinapouri Tarn at the outlet. The tarn looked beautiful in the clear conditions.
Hinapouri Tarn. Lake Angelus beyond
The forecast severe SW gale had long come and gone by the time we arrived at the Saddle, so our sloth was not a bad thing as it turned out. We then turned our attention to Angelus Peak’s west ridge and found the summit at 1545.
Mounts Hopeless Cupola and Franklin viewed from Angelus Peak
Views were magnificent, but the remnant of strong wind discouraged lingering and time was marching on so we slithered our way down the north ridge, rejoined our uphill route at the wee tarn, and headed for the hut.
The last of the trampers booked in at the hut were arriving just as we were leaving at 1750; no doubt baffled as to what we were doing.
Wind gusts ruffle Lake Rotoroa
We were wondering a bit too. The stroll along Robert Ridge was relatively relaxing once we’d climbed back up to the ridge top and we found the springy grass fields just past the “wooden ranger” especially kind on our feet.
Robert Ridge in the evening lightjpeg
The descent through the grasslands in the early evening light was very special, with no sound except the melodious bird life and our footsteps. After a short break at the bench by the bush edge, once again it was on with our packs and down the Pinchgut to the car park, where we arrived at 2115, precisely 12 hours after we set off! Scrutiny of our activity recording devices confirmed what we had suspected: we were indeed a bunch of slackers, having spent 3 hours and 10 minutes of the 12 engaged in taking breaks, photography, snacking, admiring views, idly chatting and other slothful activities.
Stats: 50,667 steps (Brian), 30.17km (Malcolm - Strava), 1935m climbed.
It was a great day to be among the mountains. My especial thanks to Tony for his capable and careful driving at the end of what was a long and energetic day.
Participants: Brian (leader/scribe), Tony, Malcolm