Linda Van, Hiking High n Dry
- Start date: 8 September 2019
- Age When Completed: 55
- Direction Walked: North to South
General Comments
What a fantastic asset to Western Australia! The quality of this trail and the high standard of work and commitment that the volunteers put in, I am truly grateful for. Whilst the trek was physically and mentally harder than I anticipated, I wouldn’t change a single day. Loved it!
Food/Supplies Comments
I posted packages ahead to the Visitors Center at each town and had no issue with this system. I had commercial freeze dried meals (Campers Pantry) supplemented with Deb instant potato and a cup of soup in the evenings. Breakfast was initially porridge, however at the 3/4 mark I became sick of this and switched to instant noodles and a protein bar for breakfast. I didn’t have a specific lunch, however stopped mostly every 5km for a snack and drink. I was happy with my food choices.
Favourite Section
I could not wait to sight the ocean. I became excited at Mt Chance where the inlet was visible from the top of the rock. I loved the Pingerup Plains, and then eventually when Mandalay Beach became visible was a real highlight for me.
Highlights
The conveyor belt.
Being able to swim at on about 5 different occasions.
The canoe crossing.
The wildflowers.
The people I met.
Town days with a shower, pub grub and a real bed.
Personal Reactions
I loved waking up somewhere different every day. I met interesting and friendly people. I learned what is important to me - my family and my friends. I felt a real sense of achievement at completion of this trek.
Wildlife
10 snakes, 3 wild pigs, 2 echidnas, 2 baby emu chicks walking with their daddy, 1 racehorse goanna, 1 blue tongued lizard, 1 swarm of bees, multiple kangaroos and some emus.
Lots of birds including birds of prey.
Your Best Equipment
My rain pants. Whilst I did not ever use them for their intended purpose, I would put them on at arrival to camp for mozzie protection, and they worked a treat.
Your Worst Equipment
My sleeping bag. Sea to Summit Spark 3.
I was too cold, and found it to be too snug, especially the foot box where I could not straighten out my feet properly.
Advice for Others
This track is very doable. All you have to do is get from hut to hut each day and eventually you will finish. Water, shelter and a toilet is available every day. This is a high quality 5 star track.