Day 17 - Porters hut to St Arnaud!

Today was my was last day in the range, but also a big one! I had around 33km to St Arnaud with some 3000ft climbs through rocks and forest. I knew I would be getting into town late, so I actually woke up early for once and hit the trail before 8am.

I passed most hikers on my way to Red Hills hut - the mid way point - and actually made it there in 3h 45min when it's estimated to take 5hr. I stopped for a quick lunch and then hit the trail with speed again. I wasn't stopping much today with the thought of greasy fatty pizza driving my every step.

From Red Hills hut it was an astonishing difficult climb straight up, straight down and then up up up again to a high point before taking a steep four wheel drive road down to the highway. My knees were killing me on the downhill but it was a good pain. The type of pain that you know won't linger for weeks. Temporary pain.

I eventually made it to the road, and the thought of hitchhiking the last 8km in to town was definitely on my mind. I decided to hike it out, and made it to St Arnaud by 6pm.

I stopped at the first motel I saw and pushed the intercom for some assistance. To my surprise, the owner snapped at me when I asked what their availability was, telling me they only had rooms for $140 a night, and before I could even respond properly he hung up on me. I don't recommend the traverse Sabine Lodge if you're looking for any accommodation with polite hosts.

I continued walking until I reach the only other lodge in town. The Travers Lodge. Very similar name to the grumpy Lodge, but much different, and much nicer! The owner at the front desk treated me with kindness and respect, even though I was filled with mud and stunk of hiker flesh. He helped me find a nice room, and although it was a bit pricy, I was happy to splurge after such a long stint in the woods.

The traverse Lodge also has a buffet every Sunday night, and it just so happened to be Sunday!! I ate every thing they had expect the cous cous salad. I need a break from cous cous....

It took me 10 days, but I completed the richmond range. I started the range feeling tired and slow and finished with speed and energy. I'm ready for a rest day, but also ready to take on the Waiui Pass!