‘Let’s go off track, come on!’ I might as well have been jumping up and down like a child excited by the sound of a Mr Whippy truck, so excited I was by the potential fun to be had mere metres off track!
It was a fun adventure with the girls taking on a hike up Breast Hill, Lake Hawea. I had chucked a couple of weight plates in my pack to simulate the weight I’ll have for the 45th (and to slow me down!), and we set off on an out and back to Breast Hill.
As we climbed the cloud was hanging low, keeping us cool and shading us from the sun. We scrambled and chatted our way up. Exploring some limiting beliefs and for some experiencing terrain not experienced before.
The final push to the summit is always a grind on his route, no matter your fitness! But as we sidled, ascended and picked our way up the ridge the clouds retreated and we were treated to the stunning views and beautiful terrain that makes this route worth it every time.
I had been eying up the scrambling potential of taking an off-track route as we headed to the summit, rock ledges, and scree slopes whispering to me to come and play!
After a rest at the summit and some food to restore energy and spirits we headed back down. Unable to contain my excitement, and the others finally relenting to my joyous pleas, we finally got off track and picked our way through rocks below and over ridgelines.
For one of our party, this was her first time going off track and the fear and excitement were real, as was the total triumph at moving through terrain she didn’t know she was capable of traversing. My heart was full with being able to support her journey and give her that opportunity!
A perfect day out. I love that I am completely fired up, ready and excited for off-track. I’m also blown away by having the opportunity to share this passion and the growth that comes from doing things you didn’t know you were capable of!
- The Route: Breast Hill Blast Doc Track
- The People: Nia and Jess
- The Time of Year: Spring
- Gear: Shorts, Tee, Inov-8 shoes, BD Poles, Osprey Pack
- My Difficulty Rating: Some scrambling, poled route, moderate hiking/running
- Distance/Elevation/Time: 15.5km/1300m/3.5hr run or 5-6hr hike
