Friday, January 20/23 – “The Big Hike” Day 2

After a somewhat restless night we were up early for day 2. Food had been consumed and the tents left behind so, in theory, our packs would be slightly lighter. They certainly didn’t feel any lighter. Today we are climbing to the Angelus hut. Emphasis on the word climbing. The hut sits at 1,650m which means just over 1,000m (3,281 ft) up from the Lakehead hut.

The trek started alongside the river on flat ground. We simply strode through two 15’ wide streams that were a foot deep. Wet boots and socks be damned. The grass was so tall it sometimes made following the path a challenge.

Suddenly we were faced with having to cross a river. This necessitated learning how to safely link with fellow hikers in case of a tumble. Although a very important lesson and one taken with solemn respect, we did look a bit goofy making the crossing.

Wet boots, socks and pant legs would prove to be the least of our worries.

Then we turned up into the mountain.

We should have known what was ahead as the sign left little to the imagination. This was after two plus hours with wet boots and those unrelentingly heavy packs. The times noted were probably achieved by some Olympic level NZ professional trekker. They were just a dream to us.

Then we really turned up the mountain.

Then we really, really turned up the mountain.

Then we real….. well, you get the idea.

It’s difficult to convey just how challenging, both physically and mentally the trek was. Every step required focus as where to place your feet. Every loose rock seemed to rattle every bone in your body. Thirst was ever present. Something in your mind wants you to just stop and rest for an hour but you know you can’t. It became a battle of wills against the mountain with the knowledge that the hut was just over the next ridge.

Then suddenly it was over. The small lake beside the hut came into view. In fact, we climbed slightly down into a dormant volcano. Spartan accommodations looked like the Four Seasons. Our guides proved to be magicians again and fed us like royalty. Utter exhaustion was truly put to the test when Mo and Mark were assigned upper bunks. Those may have been the toughest three steps up, ever.