Mt Bogong Easter Epic

Easter means many things for many people, for us it means getting away to appreciate friends, family and the beautiful places around.  The 'Easter Epic' this year took us to Victoria's highest mountain, Mt Bogong.

Pondering the next meal...mmm

Signing in

The gang gathered from far and wide with packs full and stomachs empty (well, willing to continually eat at least).  Maps were pulled out, plans laid and routes explained.  The new TLIT (team leader in training) stepped up and took command of the group by handing out safety 'hot cross buns'.  The idea being that being so hard we should be able to beat back any wild beast that should stand in our way, and then have a healthy snack to finish off with.

Bush appreciation moment digital style!

A few creek crossings to get us going, then the conversation stopped as the climbing started... and kept going... and going... and going.   The day consisted of ups and ups, every step bring a new wave of sweat pouring off us all, but we managed to get ourselves to Michell Hut in time for dinner.  We hadn't eaten in at least an hour, so the stoves were put to work quick smart!

Our Good Friday  was a little better than usual with Jo getting another year older, she's now 3 going by the candles on her cake, and is really growing up quickly.  The vocal cords were warmed up with 'happy birthday' which ensured that other campers stayed at a distance for their own safety.  The wind however came in to help Jo with the candles in the middle of the night.  And boy did it blow, luckily the morning head count confirmed that everyone was still on the ground, although Stu was looking for the yellow brick road.

The nights wind blew the clouds away leaving us with the perfect morning

With clear skies overhead, the climbing continued up to the summit of Mt Bogong.  The sun stayed with us and the walking was fantastic with views to match.  After a few breaks to act like lizards in the sun and eat Easter Eggs we hit the top of Victoria!

Looking back down the trail

 

The twisted Snow Gums of the Victorian Alps

Snow Poles

The clouds tried to take the mountain, but luck was with us!

Moon Rising

Being Easter the full moon was out, and in spectacular form, rising over the trees in a perfectly clear sky.  It took everyone by surprise when it seemingly leapt over the horizon and lit up the campground.  A great end to the day (topped off with another big feed of course!)

Climbing down the 'Staircase'

Day three and we woke to a few pathces of frost on the tents, but smiling with the thought that the hardest was behind us.  We'd reached the top, so it would be downhill.  And it was pretty much, all down hill, very steeply!  But we got down and to cap off the weekend, the mountain bikes were waiting for us!  

Year Of Good Times!