KPang - Kathy Pangler
- Start date: 20 May 2023
- Age When Completed: 53
- Direction Walked: North to South
General Comments
The Bibbulmun track is such an amazing hike that I have been planning to do for so long now. Our first ever overnight hike was from Frenchman’s Bay Road to Sandpatch back in 2016, so it was fitting that this was my final stop on my E2E N2S. I have been so lucky to have a year off work this year and I am so happy to have had time to plan and do my E2E - a long time dream of mine.
Food/Supplies Comments
Planned the entire hiking food supplies before I started my journey. Everything was carefully measured to make sure weight was kept to a minimum. Everything was spot on until about half way through, when I found I was seeking additional nourishment, so food supplies needed to be topped up. It wasn’t an issue as I was physically stronger and could easily carry a bit more food anyway.
Favourite Section
Weather really dictated how I felt about each section. In the past it was always the Pemberton tall trees but this time round it was one big rain fest. So I’m thinking I loved my walk from Balingup to Donnelly River. Beautiful scenery.
Highlights
Part of the track I completed solo. My husband joined me for the first third and final third of the track but had work commitments so couldn’t be with me all the way. So the middle section from Collie to Northcliffe, I completed solo and I am very proud of myself doing this. I love hiking with him the best, but it was an achievement for me to know that I could do it on my own.
Personal Reactions
I had a lot of self-doubt about how my body would hold up. I have dodgy knees and joint pain. I did a lot of training prior to the hike to ensure I was as physically fit as I could be and that really helped. I am so proud of my achievements. It took me 62 days (49 hiking days with rest days along the way) but I made it!
Wildlife
Loads of kangaroos, wallabies. A few emus. Beautiful bird life - loved the wrens. One snake (second last day - think it was a python). So many frogs. Whales in the distance blowing spray. Spiders building their webs. A pig and some piglets (growled at me - reported at Pemberton VC)
Your Best Equipment
My new sleeping bag - kept me warm in all conditions. Didn’t need to pack my liner.
Your Worst Equipment
My original raincoat - absorbed the water! Easily 2kg heavier in rain and absolutely useless. Purchased a S2S Poncho and so much better.
Advice for Others
Take the time to plan as much as you can and if you can keep the weight down, your hike will be so much more enjoyable. My pack was comfortable and sat around the 13 -14kg mark most of the time. Believe in yourself. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, embrace the challenges and trust in yourself.