- Start date: 29 March 2016
- Age When Completed: 20
- Direction Walked: North to South
- Others in Group:
Ben Bettison
General Comments
This is my first e2e. will not be my last! I visited every shelter along the way, and loved every minute. It was fascinating seeing the scenery change as I went north to south. We took 35 days of walking, and 2 rest days. Not pushing ourselves to the limit, but it wasn’t easy. Very much worth the sweat. I am unsure exactly of what days I was at each shelter in the directional form I sent… but the start date and finish dates are correct.
Food/Supplies Comments
I did not cook a single meal during my time on the Track. My diet consisted of dried foods that did not require heating. Pasta, dried meats, nuts and trail mix, dried fruit, and of course plenty of delicious snacks!
Favourite Section
I enjoyed the views between Walpole and Albany. I enjoyed the views from the tops of the ‘mountains’ the Track summits.
Highlights
Seeing the contrast between where fire had burned and where bush had survived, specifically at the Murray campsite area, and also at West Cape Howe.
Personal Reactions
I feel much fitter, and inspired for more hiking.
Wildlife
Saw:
Pigs, tiger snakes, dugites, emus, wallabies, kangaroos, many species of birds, rats, bandicoots, feral cats, bats, lizards and skinks, fish, part of a dead whale, jellyfish, foxes, rabbits.
Your Best Equipment
NEMO sleeping mattress. Camelbak hydration bladder. Kindle.
Zamberlan Surround hiking shoes. Sleeping bag liner.
Your Worst Equipment
Old hiking shoes I started with, replaced in Dwellingup.
Advice for Others
You do not need many items of clothing - just bring clothes that dry fast, moisture wick and don’t smell. Good quality underwear is not to be underestimated. Checking the map doesn’t make you closer; just keep walking!