Day Trip – Daphne Hut, Saturday March 27. Map: BL37 Norsewood
Trampers: Colleen Perreaux, Matt Green, Jude Paton, Alex Thomason, Alan Meadows, Marc Marchal and John Russell
Seven day trippers set off from EIT. It was a mild day, but there was a breeze that had us worried about what was in store at Longview. So we opted for the safer option of Daphne Hut.
The narrow gravel road to Daphne track car park was negotiated carefully and we arrived around 8.30, setting off soon after. After an easy first section, it was up and into the deceptively hard and steep track. Luckily, it flattened out for a bit, where we had a group conference wondering if we had missed the turn-off. However we continued and had a welcome break by the sign to Daphne, where we chatted with a hunter. After some glorious views along the top ridge, we descended steeply and arrived at the river for another welcome break in the sun, while we waited for Colleen who was gamely plodding along at the rear.
The river was easily negotiated, and we arrived at Daphne Hut after about 20 minutes. Several of us had not been there before and were impressed with the hut. We had a relaxing lunch in the sun, then an easy walk through the river before tackling the climb up the ridge.
The climb flattened out halfway up, which made it easier for a while. Once on the top, it seemed to take forever to reach the turn-off, where we had a breather. The final downward leg was quick, but steep.
We arrived back at the van about 4.10pm. Well done to Alan for being the oldest (and probably one of the fittest) members, and to Colleen who completed the trip only ’10’ minutes behind.
We regretfully bypassed the pub on the way back, for time was against us, and we arrived back at the EIT about 6.15 – another great day.
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