9 walkers set off from Cowan Station for a walk of many ups and downs. The early fog was settled in the valleys but the sun shone brightly on our walkers and the very first ascent saw us rapidly de-layering.
Briefing at Cowan station Early fog settled in the valley
This section of the great North walk has some wonderful bush and excellent views as well as multiple steep and rocky ups and downs. It did not disappoint on any measure.
Walking through wonderful bush on the Great North Walk Good track Degraded track Tree along our route
There was much lively chatter but quiet walkers were able to enjoy the wide variety of bird calls which accompanied our first descent.
Steep descent - one of many Further down hill Creek crossing at the bottom of first descent
Morning tea was taken on a rock ledge well before the descent to Berowra Waters and lunch on another rock ledge after the steepest part of the gruelling ascent out of Berowra Waters had been completed.
Morning tea stop View over Berowra Waters
We negotiated giant steps, and step irons, squeezed through slots, slogged up long slopes, and cautiously made out way down the steep descents. We thoroughly enjoyed the rare flat sections and paused to take in panoramic views.
Steep descent using step irons Some level track Hazel finds a rest spot Epacris longiflora
Last cheery smile before perilous descent to Berowra Waters Aboriginal rock art, coming into Berowra Water Banksia spinulosa
Then steeply uphill And more up The group at Naa Badu lookout
Wind sculpted overhang More down before coming up to Berowra Sun shining through resin
Well done all on completing a challenging walk. Coffee and cool drinks at the Berowra Club felt well earned.
Walkers: Martin, Rick, Steve, Leah, Celia, Nick S and Polly were led by Hazel and Wendy C.
Leaders: Hazel and Wendy C.
Report: Wendy C.
Photos: Wendy C (1, 2, 3, 8, 10, 12, 13, 14,15, 16, 17, 18, 20-23), Hazel (4, 5, 6, 7, 19,24), Nick S (9, 11)