Larapinta 6: Hugh Gorge to Ellery Creek 1

An easier day today so we broke camp and had breakfast in the light.

The trail today was well made and there were not so many hills. So we strolled more than hiked for much of the day. It was still hot and there was no shade to speak of, and the flies were abundant and persistent from the moment we got up. we are all thoroughly fed up with the flies.

The trail today was the first half of the official stage 6 which takes us through the valley between the Chewing Range and the Heavitree Range. The ground was the usual rock and dirt but there were many wildflowers and flowering trees.The purple daisies stood out in particular. The other standout feature was the many stark gums against the blue sky.

our camp is Rocky Gulley and it is fairly basic. Once again there is no water for washing etc. We are all now adept at putting up our tents and getting settled quickly at the end of the hike. As we finished walking at 3pm we had some time to sort stuff out and sit. Which would have been idyllic were it not for the flies.

One thing that has already become habit is that we are going to bed between 7 and 7:30pm. By then it is pitch black and cold and the tent looks inviting. I have fallen into the habit of getting up very early and sitting watching the stars for a while, it is cold but very calming.

16.5km today.