After an evening of superb food, great company and sleeping under the stars in the riverbed in my swag, albiet with plenty of merino wool to keep me warm and not overthinking how close those dingo howls were it was time for Day Two of my Larapinta Trail experience
The full 223km of the Larapinta Trail spans between the Old Telegraph Station and Mt Sonder. Day 2 took us to the Ormiston Gorge to trek the Ormiston Pound circuit. Regarded as one of the best walks of the Larapinta Trail it offers sensational views of the Chewings Range and Mount Giles. It can be a little challenging with some rock hopping and takes approximately four hours to complete. Setting off, the trail winds around scenic slopes, dropping into the Pound and returning along Ormiston Gorge via the main waterhole. We also took the detour to Ghost Gum Lookout.
Ormiston is also a sacred site for the Western Arrernte people. It’s name in Western Arrernte is Kwartatuma.
First port of call was the snack bar and there in the middle was my ideal weight maintenance nemesis – chocolate bullets. I wish I could say I stayed strong and resisted the temptation but I would be fibbing. You will be pleased to know I did also grab a couple of bananas.
We made it to the top of the Pound Walk savouring the beautiful weather
Our wonderful guide Clare pointed out all the highlights as far as the eye can see
There were plenty of opportunities for me to practice my rock hopping
I’ll bet this young lady regretted doing it in thongs. OMG
Clare leads the way to the Ghost Gum Lookout
Where the view was indeed outstanding – though I must admit I kept away from the overhanging edge
then the girls (sans Lynne) braved the chilly waters and took a dip or two
and at the end of the day I was smiling from ear to ear with a very sunburnt nose tip
Bring on Day 3