The Windows walk is always a highlight – the framed views onto the river below are spectacular. Some of us in the ever-so- slightly- older category, were recalling how the track used to follow a pipe into the gorge and how we used to scramble up one part of the tunnels now avoided by a path. Everything improves with age- the tracks, the trampers and the signage being most notable.
After walking the Windows we ascended via the Dubbo track to the summit of Karangahake. Two families and another couple were already there and asked if we could put up the “No Vacancy” sign. No worries we all squeezed in and ate our second lunch – while admiring the views into the valley and to Mt Te Aroha, even spotting the Tongariro mountains in the distance.
A quick descent down to the river again on the “short sharp descent” track which one group didn’t find – then on through the 1km tunnel and back to the car park A good five hours of honest tramping completed.
Some hived off to the café to get drinks before it shut while we waited for the last party to arrive. Well done Imogen for a fantastic day’s tramping.