The gang's all here
Six keen bushwalkers started off on an unexpectedly drizzly morning. The BOM app predicted 25% chance of 0 mls, but somehow the percentage which that didn’t cover came into play and we got slightly wet. This only lasted for a while, though, and we were soon walking in some dappled sun. The expected wind also didn’t appear.
Starting the trail 
Just us and the waratahs
I'm warning you..don't take that photo 
Obligatory photo of photographer
After starting at the beginning of the Perimeter Trail, we stopped briefly to look at the waratahs just before the turnoff to Long Trail. We then made extremely good time along Long Trail and the Cowan Track to reach our morning tea spot well before expected. Just before the end, we stopped to look at the aboriginal engravings. Because of the light, multiple engravings were now quite clear. There were several which none of us had seen before, despite having been there on several occasions.
A family of cairns 
Don't look down
Rock carvings 
High point at the end of the Cowan Trail 
Rock carvings
We then retraced our steps back along the Cowan Track and on to the end of Long Trail. By this time, there was some welcome heat in the sun. The bush was sparkling and there were many flowers out. An early lunch was eaten at Peach Trees, overlooking Cowan Water. We mused about why it was called Peach Trees and surmised that there must have been some early settlement there, but no-one was really sure.
After a leisurely lunch, we again made good time back to the cars. We had teas, coffees, hot chocolate and cake in the park opposite the Terrey Hills shops. Thanks to Alan, Nick, Hazel and Jane (visitor) for coming on the walk and making it an enjoyable day.
Leaders: Jenny C and Peter T
Walkers: Alan, Nick S, Hazel and Jane (visitor)
Words: Jenny C
Photos: Peter T, Nick S, Hazel
Gallery of Wild Flowers
