Trigs and Lakes

Last day at Guthega began with a girls run up Guthega Trig. Crisp morning air was lovely as we descended from the lodge across Guthega Dam. As soon as we were in the sunshine it warmed up nicely and so did we as we climbed up and up. There is small indistinct track which we managed to follow until the snow gums petered out. From here the ground was covered with clumps of spongy alpine grass.

There is debate as to whether the trig is at the highest point or not, either way we missed the actual trig point which is slightly off to the left of the track while we were deciding on which of the next rocky outcrops to run to! The 360º views of the Great Dividing Range, Consett Stephens Pass and Mt Tate were spectacular.

We carefully picked out way back down, stopping at the actual trig (which had fallen over the edge) for a photo. Everyone was up by the time we returned to the lodge - 90 mins later having gone 9km with a 400m climb. A good morning workout.

We spent the rest of the morning packing and cleaning up the lodge ready for the next visitors due to arrive that afternoon. Our original plans for the next two days involved meeting up with the Jones/Walter clan for a few days of camping around the Geehi area, however we'd received word that they had to bail due to food poisoning from christmas day! Thus we decided to abort camping too but would join the rest of the family on a short walk to Rainbow Lake before driving home to Canberra that afternoon.

Rainbow Lake located off the Perisher Road, was formed when Diggings Creek was dammed to supply water for the Hotel Kosciusko (now known as Sponars Chalet) in the early 1900's. This easy 3km return walk meanders through the alpine snow gums and grasslands was perfect for expending some energy as well as a great spot for a picnic lunch!

Early in the piece while walking along a relatively flat grassy section, Susie took a tumble - twisting her ankle. Luckily with a physio on hand (thanks Cathy!) Susie had her ankle strapped and was up and walking again in no time. The children took turns complaining one minute then sprinting off to catch up whoever was in front the next and finally Rainbow Lake came into view which distracted them again.

We paddled our feet while eating lunch. Although our stop was fairly brief thanks to the persistent march flies, we did get a few good family shots.

Our return walk was timed well as the clouds were beginning to gather. We bid our goodbyes to Cathy, Susie and families who were continuing on for more holidaying in Thredbo and to Nana and Grandpa who were driving back home like us.