The Annual Snow Shoe Shuffle by Ben Cruachan Walking Club was held recently. Â
Hikers met in Erica as usual with three Guest walkers. For one new member, it was their first visit to the Australian snow fields. He took a lot of photos. This year the sun was shining, and the snow was deep and widespread enough to need snowshoes which were hired in Erica before carpooling up to the Mt St Gwinear carpark.Â
Hikers started up the walking track behind the information board. Their snow shoes were on before they reached the viewing platform which is about 30 mins walk, due to the steep and slippery conditions. They had also shed most of our top layers – it was a beautiful still sunny day.
Snow shoeing is quite noisy and physically challenging. Regular stops are vital to hear the bush and catch your breath. The Leader provided some shorter route options to suit our different fitness levels.
After the viewing platform hikers headed cross country through the snow gums on a track which had been previously marked with pink ribbons by SBWC.
Morning tea was at the rock cairn on the peak of Mt St Gwinear (1506 m). Great mountain views to the east, and a glimpse of Thompson Dam. One hiker was delighted and surprised when her adult children (guest walkers) surprised her with a birthday cake ( which had been cleverly concealed in pack), complete with candle and matches. What a lovely way to share a birthday- in the snow, on a mountain and with fellow bushwalkers.Â
Hikers then headed up the cross-country Summit Trail (being careful to keep to the side to allow skiers through) and rested at the rock cave which is on the AAWT. It was lunchtime by now so instead of proceeding to Mt St Philack they ducked back to a lovely sheltered hollow. Hikers were serenaded by a Golden Whistler, while the Leader shared photos (from his recent trip) of higher and snowier Swiss landscapes, filled with the sound of cow bells. Hikers then skirted round the base of Mt St Gwinear on the Cascades trail back to the car park. This was much more secluded than the main trail and they felt a real sense of the serenity of the snowy Australian bush in the winter.
Eight kms. Five hours. The club guests valued walking with an experienced leader and supportive group. They enjoyed taking their turn at leading the group, and the comraderie that is established while tackling a challenge together.Â
Ben Cruachan Walking Club has a range of walks to suit many interests and is welcoming of guest walkers. The website is a wealth of information. Â