Nelson Lakes - St Arnaud Range Track

Another day, another ridge top!
Today the plan was to tackle the St Arnaud Range Track, the other major day hike from St Arnaud.
We were keen to tackle this track to get a different perspective of the area, this time from the eastern side of Lake Rotoiti. We alerted the DOC staff of our intentions as this hike is not as popular as the Mt Robert Circuit.
From the Kerr Bay campsite, it is a slow but steady ascent through more beautiful beech forest.





Negotiating this track was more difficult than yesterday, owing to the large tree roots so caution was exercised. The climb is relentless with no designated lookout viewpoints due to the dense forest, however this did provide sun and wind protection. After an hour we stopped for a rest and drink and then continued our plod. The canopy started to thin so we knew we were approaching the exposed eastern slopes of the range and after another 45 mins we reached Parachute Rocks. Out of the sheltered forest, the wind was strong and cool. We had a brief stop to take in the views, but the summit beckoned.



The track up was barely visible with snow poles and markers in place to assist with navigating the trail. It took 20 mins to climb up the very steep path and upon the reaching the ridge top were almost blown off! We summited and realised we had climbed 1000m!
There was a faint path along the ridge top both to the north and south of the summit but unlike yesterday, the winds were so strong, it was too cold and dangerous to follow. We sheltered down on the lee side which was almost dead calm and had lunch. The vista of rugged landscape alpine peaks and glaciated valleys was spectacular, though personally I did prefer the views from yesterdays ridge top hike.



We savoured the views for about 30 mins and then headed back down. It was a careful descent on my part, making sure of my footing as it was prime ankle twisting territory. Added to this, I was conscious that we had done some serious climbing and descending over the last 2 days and didn't want to risk any chance of injury.
From the awe-inspiring Southern Alps, we now head to the coast!
But I'll be back.....