Day 89 | Lake Sumner
10 January 2023 | 23°C | 28km
While the tedious walk in the riverbed continues in the morning, followed by a climb to a saddle, I send some wishes to the universe for an easy to walk trail that is easier on my knees, ankles and groin.
And yes, my wishes are fulfilled after lunch when grassy meadows alternate with soft forest trails!
We pass quite a few southbound hikers and several huts before entering into a forest with several (unnecessary) ups and downs and I wonder why we did not just continue walking by the river when suddenly it smells strange …. and there we are at some natural hot pools several hikers have told us about.
It is mega hot und burns like 🔥 when I slowly step in with my scratched legs covered with sunfly bites. I cannot stay to head down to the river for a refreshing cook down there.
Looking at the map we decide to not take the Te Araroa trail leading again through the forest but an alternate trail through some paddocks along the river. It’s a lovely walk meeting many cows once gain until we set up camp close to Lake Sumner.
