As Marilyn said, what better way to spend Mother’s Day than having lunch at the Pinnacles. Much better than hanging out in the crowded cafes on the North Shore!
An early start saw us in the Kauaeranga Valley by 10.30. There were three parties- a loop walk doing the Webb Track and Billy Goat, and others either just going to the hut or to the Pinnacles beyond.
Our group set off up the seemingly thousands of steps of the old pack horse track – the Webb. Stunning views greeted us as we neared the Hydro camp. Then resisting the temptation to go directly to the hut, we pressed on reaching the top in about 2 ½ hours. It was a perfect lunch spot with the Ranges and Hauraki Plains to admire. Quite a gutsy climb to the top – steep steps and a few rocky clambers – the ladders were most impressive. At lunch time I managed to get a photo of Fred sitting in the same spot as he had four years earlier- nice one, Fred.
Then back to the hut with just time to admire the old dam- Dancing Creek. The ranger told us that there were 70 people staying there the night before – but none booked in for the Sunday.
Due to lack of time we had to come back down the Webb track to get back to the bus by 3.30 – as directed by our Organiser, Lindsay.
Thanks to Lindsay for organising not only the trip but also perfect weather, and to Ian for driving us there and back.