TA Day 46

TA Day 46: Sunday 2 February 2025

Travers River / South of Travers Falls - St Arnaud

We woke up to a wet tent but a blue sky.

Today we only had one goal in mind: St Arnaud. FOOD.

Since we had camped in the middle of Upper Traverse Hut and John Tait Hut, we didn't have to walk too far until we reached John Tait Hut in the morning and stopped here for breakfast. The trail was better now but there were some detours for washouts here and there.

Kim has never been stung before, and is surprised that it feels like getting stung by a nettle. Except that instead of the feeling disappearing after 15 mins or so, it doesn't disappear. But no allergic reaction at least, so that's good.

We kept going, listening to podcasts and doing our best to endure the hot weather. We found some geocaches along way as well and hoped that we would get mobile reception soon so we could see when the Nelson Lakes Visitor's Center would close.

We got reception five minutes before closing time, but we still had several kms to go, so we decided not to stay at the DOC Campsite, but instead try our luck with the Alpine Lodge. They only had two Backpacker rooms left - one female and one male dorm. Not what we were hoping for, so we thanked them and decided to head towards Nelson Lakes Motels instead. But first, Kim wanted to have a look in the "free box" that we had been recommended by other hikers. So we sneaked into the kitchen in the Alpine Lodge Backpackers and there was indeed a free box there, with leftover food from other hikers. We found a few packets of pasta and some oats.

Then we quickly stopped at the "general store" to get some snacks and check the place out, before going to Nelson Lakes Motels. They did indeed have rooms available, and since we had decided to stay two nights, we could stay with them, since they require a minimum of two nights.

For 145 NZD per night, we got our own little place, with a double bed, shower, towels, linen, kitchen etc.

Since it was already quite late, we decided to head to the Alpine Lodge to have food right away. The only other place that sells food is a fish and chips place, beside the general store, but of course it was closed when we were there...

We were so excited. We ended up getting a pizza each and a big side of fries. It was all okay, not the best we've eaten (far from) and not the best for the price. But they were good, good enough for hungry hikers!

After eating we went back to the lodge, both of us very full and happy, and took a shower and did laundry before having a cozy evening together 🥰

Today's:

Distance: 27.79 km

Ascent: 338 m

Descent: 693 m

Tent nights: 32/46

Weather: Sunny