Note: This post is best read while humming, or listening to, Julie Andrews singing songs from the "Sound of Music."
Of course, things get that green because it RAINS. And on Day 3, that was the forecast. Lots of rain.
Torrents of water poured off the mountain, turning large parts of the trail into a stream.
We launched ourselves on the Routeburn Trek, which is a highlight of any trip to New Zealand. Leah rushed online last May to get one of the coveted spots in the huts along the trek. As is the case everywhere on the South Island, a lot of the beauty is just in the getting there. Much to the frustration of the family, I continue to swerve off the road to take random photos.
One attractive feature of the Routeburn Trek is that the terrain changes with each day of the hike. We began with forest and mountains, kind of like Vermont with more rugged terrain.
Day 2 crossed a snowy peak, rockier and covered with patches of snow. Although it is nearly summer here, the mountains got a fresh coat of snow the night before.
With snow in summer, we were able to see wildflowers AND make the world's smallest snowman, all in the same day and same place.
The lodges were comfortable and cozy. I mean really cozy. How often do you sleep this close to strangers?
On Day 3, the trek goes through a rain forest--more dense greenery than I've ever seen in one place, almost like a rain forest Land of Oz.
Torrents of water poured off the mountain, turning large parts of the trail into a stream.
In the end, Team Wheelan persevered! (We checked into a motor lodge with a washer and dryer.)
your pictures and commentary was all fine and dandy, but what i really want to know, have you seen any kakapo or takahē?
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