Stage 2 Larapinta Trail

Well that is a wrap for the Outdoor Education season, finishing it off in fine form by the Stage 2 Outdoor Education class on their final Self Reliant Expedition. Students have utilised the skills learned over the course of their year and in particular their past group practicals to conduct a successful 5-day expedition safely and sustainably. 

This year, in an attempt to incorporate some amazing sites in the Chewings Range and avoid the mice issues at Larapinta Trailheads, the group stuck to largely off-track and remote locations.

Day 1 saw the group depart from Ormiston Gorge – a nice link for those who walked the Larapinta Trail in 2021 as part of the Year 10 Alternative program which started or finished at Ormiston Gorge. It was a beautiful walk along the familiar path of down the gorge on the Pound Walk track. A bit of water crossing at the start was a nice reality check! Fortunately, no bags or students got overly wet and it was decided at this point that it was a nice lunch spot before continuing on to Bowman’s Gap. With packs being heavy and shoulders and backs still adjusting, students were delighted when greeted with a massive waterhole and sandy beaches to call camp for the night.

Ruby and Rachel decided to lead the way on Day 2, showcasing great teamwork and navigation skills to move the group safely across the pound to the base of Mt Giles. With some tricky walking and hot temperatures, we were excited to get to camp by lunch time to fully immerse ourselves and connect with the gorge near our site. A cool and scenic space to enjoy each other's company and reflect on the day.

Hamish and Levi put their hand up to manage our movements on Day 3. Whilst undulating hills surrounded us, the team did so well to lead us through some easy walking terrain to a nice spot for lunch. We were able to hang out for a few hours before deciding to pack up for an afternoon hike to camp deeper within the Alice Valley. We were pleased to drop into a nice river bed for the night, temperatures cooled and we had our first dewy evening. Evidence of wildlife kept us captivated, making observations of some big animals like camels who are unfortunately getting around the environment.

With us situated half-way in the Alice Valley, Cody and Yale had a nice morning of some solid walking getting onto the Larapinta Trail and into Inarlanga Pass as the temperatures started to really rise and feel uncomfortable. Getting into the Serpentine Chalet Dam trailhead by lunch time meant we could have another afternoon of resting and enjoying the space and history before a late afternoon ascent of Counts Point. It was great to see some other hikers and hear about some of their adventures while we all avoided the heat in the trailhead. Likewise, they loved hearing about our adventure so far.

The group moved super fast along the trail and while Counts Point was only a relatively small 6-7km walk, it was definitely challenging! The steepness had us taking regular breaks, but the views from the top made up for everything - it was absolutely stunning and a highlight of the trip for many, if not all!

It has been nice being back, tidying up from our trip and reflecting over the many photos. However, it is also very sad to be nearly finishing up with an awesome group of students. Thanks for all your efforts and making the most of the opportunity. A big thank you to David Atkins for also making everything happen!

~ Emma Shearer

Assistant to Head of Students