Our second hut hike was to Cannibal Gorge in Lewis Pass. The weather was a bit cooler with some rain early in the day, but we never got soaked.
On paper this hike seemed only modestly more difficult than Whariwarangi. A little longer and about twice the elevation gained and lost. However the numbers don’t factor in all the roots and rocks and clambering up and down creek beds. It was a lot more technical.
The kids really enjoyed the dynamic trail and the two big suspension bridges.
According to a trail sign, it’s called Cannibal Gorge because of a huge amount of human bones, thought to be the spot where victorious warring tribes ate their captives who were not suitable slaves. We ate mostly noodles. Woe to the vanquished.
Kylie did amazing on this hike with a broken toe sustained in Rarangi. Taped the toe, tightened the boot, paracetamol and ibuprofen and away we went. A gorgeous hut at the end of a big meadow was a welcome sight.
Our only two hut mates, Wayne an intensivist and Rupert an ICU nurse (both from NZ) had already started a fire! Of note, everyone we met on this hike who was staying in a hut was from NZ.
A group of ladies moved on to the next hut so our family had one half of the place (3 story bunks!) to ourselves.
The kids loved playing in the creek bed and ranging in the meadow. I had to work hard to keep them dry, reminding them we only had one change of clothes!
At least we could dry them a bit on the clothesline in the hut.
Tasty dinner and instant oatmeal breakfast was enjoyed by all. I thought we brought way too many snacks but we went through them all and came out with only a pack of oatmeal and some wraps, plus an emergency macaroni and cheese…
The weather was much more pleasant on the way out and the hike felt a lot easier with all the food gone and the weight redistributed.
A wonderful two days with a decent sleep in between and some fun memories.
Up next, Hanmer Springs! Bye Cannibal Gorge.
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