073 Mountain Lagoon to Colo River

5 walkers undertook the challenge, meeting at Mountain Lagoon and then slowly driving 2.3km along the uneven fire trail to park the cars. There were some spots of rain falling as we prepared to set out- just enough to persuade us to don rain gear. The first 3km of walking was along pleasant fire trail, with tall trees shading the undulating track and some wildflowers adorning the sides of the track. There was quite a lot of accompanying bird song. With the rain reducing to zero, rain gear was packed away before we reached the end of the fire trail.

The bush section of the track took us down a ridge line, with wide views over the Wollemi National Park at the top (and where we stopped for morning tea) and then a series of drops over rocky edges with more gradual slopes in between. There were a lot of yellow bloodwood trees, and at times we were pushing through head high undergrowth. On reaching the lookout point, 2 walkers elected to wait while the other 3 continued the last 1.3km down to the Colo River.

The last section of track is quite steep, and in places ill-defined, with some debris across the path, making it slow going. However, the river had a good level of running water, and walkers were able to take in the majesty of the cliffs above. The group re-united back at the lookout and all set off back up the ridge line, clambering up and over the rocky points and pushing ever upwards (or so it seemed). It was a relief to get back to the fire trail and we really appreciated having left the cars part-way along the fire trail. Coffee, cider, ice cream and muffins (with apple pie to take away) were enjoyed at Bells Mountain Cafe on the way home. Well done all on a challenging day!