Conquering the Kepler: Part 3

A Long Walk in the Forest

After the strenuous uphill and steep downhill of the previous days, we were hoping the next two days would provide relief for our weary and aching legs. The terrain would be flatter but the distances greater. We still had 34km to go. We awoke to a glorious day - blue skies,clear, cool air and well rested bodies (despite the shin splints that had resulted from the steep descent of yesterday). As we walked, the birds sang to greet the new day. The iridescent green of the moss, the filtered sunlight and the blue sky combined to create a dreamlike atmosphere which was both invigorating and peaceful. Such depth of colour and sound stimulated the senses and enabled us to continue on well into the morning.

The track meandered beside and around the raging river - its downward fall reminding us that we were still descending despite the occasional hills in our path. For me, there was a growing sense of achievement as I began to realise that the biggest challenge of the Kepler Track had already been met and now I could freely enjoy all that this day and the next had to offer. After walking 17kms we arrived at our third shelter for the night - a lovely hut opposite Lake Manapouri. We were rewarded with an amazing sunset and the evening was spent enjoying the company of fellow trampers. Our final day would see us finish the track where we had started - at the Control Gates of Lake Te Anau. We could have opted for the shuttle bus 5 kms down the track, but instead decided to complete the course. The track continued to follow the river as it widened and wound its way through the foothills. It was awesome - such power and energy; its banks verdant and rich in life. Today we completed our task. After another 17kms we came out into the clearing - we were done.

I had pushed my body and my mind to achieve something that I would not have thought possible 'at my age.' I had done the training and the experience boosted my self confidence at a time in my life when I could be 'slowing down because of my advancing years.' It is so satisfying to be able to accomplish new things at my age!

Conquering the Kepler. Part 2: Into the Fog

The second day of the Kepler Track proved to be the most challenging. I had mistakenly thought that, having already climbed 1500m, the second day would be more moderate. The conversation in the hut the previous night centred mainly on the weather. Today, most of the walk was to be above the snow-line - we were to be prepared for anything.

The early morning forecast was for rain, so we set off early while the sky was still clear.We continued the upward climb, catching glimpses of Lake Te Anau and the surrounding mountains. It wasn't long before the steepness of the track began to take its toll- our pace slowed, our breathing laboured and our enthusiasm waned. Then came the fog - descending over us like a blanket. A shroud of nothingness surrounded us. The occasional glimpses of track only revealed a continuing trek up into the void. There was no choice but to push ahead. Eventually the fog cleared a little, just enough to taunt us with snatches of spectacular scenery. Then the rain came! Fortunately we had just reached the halfway point - a shelter which provided us with some protection from the wind and cold, sleeting rain outside. A place to eat, rest and wait until conditions improved (hopefully).

The rain did stop, the cloud began to break and the sun's warmth gave us hope for the rest of the journey. We were now walking along the ridge of the mountain. Every step revealing the rugged landscape beyond.

How incredible is this world in which we live! What a privilege to be able to enjoy its beauty! How generous is God to have created such diversity on this planet - so that we never tire of its beauty!

The alpine landscape was stunning but it was time to begin the descent. The upward climb was over - the hardest part of today's walk had been completed! So I thought! We had taken the best part of two days to walk up the mountains, the descent took two hours! So it was with wobbly knees, tender ankles and sore feet that we finally arrived at Iris Burn Hut for our second night of blissful slumber!

Today I was surrounded by nothingness, I was tired, I was ready to give up and I was exhilarated (eventually)! At other times in life it seems I am also walking in a fog. Hope seems to evaporate, life seems too hard. I am surrounded by disappointments, challenging relationships and uncertainties. At those times I need a place to shelter - to renew my strength, to restore my enthusiasm and to re-invigorate my soul. Jesus said,"Come to me all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest."(Matthew 11: 28).

For me, He is my Shelter and my Hope.