Day 77 - Upper Travers Hut

Back on trail, and into a very rainy forecasted Nelson Lakes National Park. Frustrating that it’s raining again but suppose that’s the nature of thru hiking; a relentless March forward. Unlike the north island skipping sections and coming back is not really an easy option. Wait it out or walk through it. 

Today I decided once again to do an alternative route to continue my Te Araroa journey. It will add some kilometres and time to the original journey, but it’s a beautiful section. Instead of walking along Lake Rotoroa at the valley bottom I’ll climb Roberts Ridge and walk along to the alpine lake of Angelus. 

As I started I ran into Joren and Florian who were going along the river valley bottom. I’ll see them again tomorrow. 

A steep climb to gain the ridge, but a good view of the Rotoroa Lake. 

Alas as I gained the ridge I rise into the clouds. 11am photo, on top flagtop mountain. Beautiful views. 

Some coral reef looking plants up here. 

I reached Angelus Lake to find a very cloudy scenery. I started lunch feeling like I wasted my energy coming up here. 

Then the cloud gods gave me mercy and parted giving a spectacular view of the lake. 

I chose not to risk continuing the alternate and go over Sunset Pass, instead descending the valley to meet back up with the official TA route. 

Walking along a dry river bed

Travers Falls

An washed up battered bridge

A spiky slug. 

I decided to just keep going all the way to Upper Travers Hut. A needless decision. I could have stayed at an earlier hut but I wanted to push. I ended up arriving near 8 after an already massive day. A 12hr day of hard hiking. I felt a little faint, but walking into the hut to see Florian’s baffled face on how I made it was worth it.