I'm still remembering a mountain walk - make that climb - we did on Saturday, not only for the amazing views but also because of the way my quads felt days later. Mount Ruapehu is the tallest peak on the North Island and clocks in at 2,796 metres (9,173 feet). It is one of three active volcanic peaks that reside in Tongariro National Park. Established in 1887, Tongariro is New Zealand's first national park and the fourth in the world. Lord of the Rings fans may recognize nearby Ruapehu's sister peak Mount Ngauruhoe which starred as the movie's Mount Doom. We looked over Happy Valley all the way up the mountain - I'm pretty sure I saw some hobbits in the distance with my binoculars.
Mount Ruapehu is a popular ski resort in the winter, but chair lifts remain open during the summer for those who want to summit the peak for a look at Crater Lake.
Sharing in our quest were friends Elsie and Etienne Truter and Geoffrey Cox. Tom works with Etienne as a surgery consultant; I work with Elsie every Tuesday and Thursday during pilates. I was especially pleased that Geoffrey made the assent with us because he is not only a well-known wildlife artist and author but an incredible nature historian. If curious about anything we're seeing, we simply ask Geoffrey. He's far more interesting than guidebooks and way better than Google.
Even with chair lifts that took us halfway up the mountain, we still had an ambitious climb to the summit. It felt like we were climbing stairs for 2 solid hours - with rock scrambles along the way. Where are switchbacks when you need them?? The mountain has blown its top several times in recent years, including a significant burst of activity in 1995 and 1996.
We saw absolutely no vegetation or wildlife along the way, but we were highly rewarded with a good look at Crater Lake from the top. Apparently the 1995 eruption emptied the crater of its lake and closed the mountain to skiers.
Our other reward - at the end of the climb - was a gin and tonic at the nearby historic Bayview Chatueau Tongariro.
YEE-OUCH! You guys are tough! Whatever possessed you to do that? Can you straighten your legs yet?
ReplyDeleteWow! Looks and sounds like another great adventure, Mom & Dad! Less than 2 weeks until I'm in your neck of the woods!!! :)
ReplyDeleteHiking AND G&Ts!! Perfect combo!
ReplyDeleteThis looked like a fabulous experience! Have really enjoyed keeping up with your adventures! Many more times looking at your site without having the time to write something... This was a great idea to keep your friends posted!
ReplyDeleteI'm surprised at how barren and other-worldly some of these shots seem, especially compared to the lush forests in previous posts. It looks like a very cool climb!
ReplyDeleteWow this was an amazing hike. You are so ambitious. Your blogs are so fun to read. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great adventure. We just returned from our trip to Southern Sudan. It is not at beautiful as New Zealand but quite an adventure. Steve went as the agriculture expert. Bought a donkey and plow and I worked with Brianne in our make shift clinics we held. Will have to share stories when you get back over a bottle (or two) of wine.
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