Bark Hut Route   BACK

{Rated BP(3d2n) 4E}

Needs permission to cross private property from the owners of ‘Cheyenne’.

A straightforward backpack, with only the italicised Cocks Comb diversion and the final climb out being a bit taxing {The rest of the trip would be rated BP(3d2n)3C}. It includes a visit to the historic bark Hut, and the easiest route into the Cocks Comb as a ‘packless’ side trip. Then there’s the lovely Blue Mountain Creek to slowly wander up. And, of course, the challenge of the climb out…….

You need to do a car shuttle, or if staying at ‘Cheyenne ‘ afterwards, organise it with the Cheyenne homestay owners.

Sections A, C, E, F, I, K, L)

This must be one of the most gradual downhill day’s walk around. There’s a lot of plants in flower in Spring to keep one interested, and a couple of old buildings to inspect. One of them, Salt Hut, gives basic shelter in the case of sudden bad weather.

Sections M, N , J2, J2, N, P1, Z

This is the day for views – you look across into the Oven Camp and Long Point area to the east, and up Blue Mountain Creek to Blue Nobby Mountain to the west. Though it’s a bit of a climb, if you just take a waterbottle and your camera you’ll be glad you took the diversion up to the Cocks Comb- some of the best views in the New England. Take great care in this area- the rocks can shift suddenly. The long ridge down to Blue Mountain Creek can be very trying on the knees- trekking poles help here.

Sections V, W, Y

A very easy walk up the creek. You have plenty of time to have a swim, and if it’s summer, you might prefer to spend the heat of the day lazing in the good pool that can usually be found at the Hole Creek junction. Then it’s a long pull up to the gate. If you are staying at ‘Cheyenne’, you might arrange a 4WD pickup at this point. But don’t forget to stop for the view from the summit on the way- it’s stunning.