Thirteen bushwalkers braved the recent cold snap and starting from the Bhundoo Bush Cottages, made their way to Longfella Pass, located on the Pigeon House North Firetrail. It was a steady climb with some very steep pinches so it wasn't long before the fingers thawed out and the layers peeled off. At the top of the pass, they enjoyed the stunning views back out to the Castle, marvelling at the fact that they had been standing on the top of Byangee Walls less than 24 hours earlier.
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They continued along the fire trail onto the plateau, thankful for the nice flat track. Alas, this wasn't to last for too long before camp leader Barry located their exit point into the dense bush. Time to glove and gaiter up! With some bush bashing down to the edge of the escarpment they explored sandstone ledges and overhangs. While some bushwalkers finished here, the remaining seven continued along the Pigeon House North Firetrail which was a gently ascending track affording some spectacular views of the western side of Pigeon House.
They eventually reached the original, rarely used, National Park trail which was very steep, rising nearly 200 vertical metres in 650m. It took 30 minutes to scale with the trail ending at the beginning of the myriad of ladders that wind their way up to the summit. They reached the top enjoying the use of recently installed ladders which felt much safer than those of the past. The walk distance was 16.2km and part of a two-day mini camp in the Budawangs.
For more information, go to www.baybushwalkers.org.au
