Mt Edwards Saturday 24th February
It was an early start leaving town at 7am with around and hour drive. Wayne had arranged with the land owners that we drive through to a spot in between the two ridges that lead to the Mt Edward summit. There had been a good dump of snow in the week leading up to this weekend and we were to be walking in fresh snow. The weather for the day was perfect, clear blue sky a few white fluffy clouds, and no wind. With an 8am start we set off up the Tekapo side, once getting up on to the ridge views of Lake Tekapo, Mt Cook and as we gained height, Lake Benmore in the other direction. We had stunning views all day. We arrived at the snow level with an interesting sidle and still a decent climb to the top. The snow was fresh and reasonably deep making this part of the climb hard work and much slower going. We arrived at the summit with much joy and taking in the amazing views was simply breath-taking. There was a good cover of snow on Mt Dobson and all the way up the Two Thumb Range. After spending some time here taking photos and relishing the moment we set off down the eastern ridge. This was pleasurable walking in the snow and not too hard. Definitely a bit quicker but still harder work tracking our way through the fresh snow until we got to the end of the snow onto gravelly territory and now a steady decent down and return to the vehicle.
This was a truly amazing day for me. Thanks to your company, Judy, Catherine, Ralph and Wayne. For the records Mt Edwards is 1916m with Height gained at 1236m to summit. This was a 17km and 9.45 hour day walk for us.
Christine