Mt Fortescue, is the highest point of the track and we found it challenging. Around us Rainforest closed in, deep, dark, glowing with vibrant colour and primeval in its twisted and tangled foliage. Hugh tree ferns, fungi, moss and lichen in myriad shades of green covering every rock and surface. I think Tasmania has it's own palette of green.
Alastair on a giant "Once upon a time" story seat
We were beginning to think we'd never reach the top when the forest thinned and the sun broke through the gloom. We were at the top!
An avenue of tree ferns dappled in sunlight near the top of Mt Fortescue.
Moving along, never far from the cliff edge we looked back at Cape Pillar with Tasman Island and the lighthouse behind - we couldn't quite believe we'd made that distance. We were right on that tip of land!
Looking out to Cape Pillar from Mt Fortescue.
Reaching the junction to Cape Huay took us 4 hours - here we had to choose the "out and back" option or continue on. We opted to have lunch here and then continue without going to the Cape. It was all downhill from here but very steep in places with many stone and wooden steps - my knees protested. Shining through the trees, our goal, the blue, crystal clear waters and squeaky white sands of Fortescue Bay.
Just as we reached the final track statue Alastair's boot gave up and the sole separated! Glad it didn't happen earlier!
Poor old boots - faithful friends.
Tall timbers and abalone shells mark the end of the track.
Our adventure is over! What an adventure it has been though! We shared the track and lodges with people from all walks of life, ages and party configurations. We shared stories and experiences and enjoyed comraderie every evening as we compared stiff and aching muscles. Alastair was wonderful and we are proud of each other. It was simply great - everything I wanted - a memory for my birthday!
Thank you dear Alastair - all my love!
A few days late, but CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! You made it, and have beautiful birthday memories which you'll always remember.
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