Staffordshire Reef - Long Gully - Enfield Park - 11.1 Kms

 U3A Hike No. 145




Hike Report by Annette

Weather - PERFECT!

Eight U3A Hikers met up for a hike of approximately 11 km in the Enfield Forest. The days' walk was to be a circuit of Long Gully/Berringa from Staffordshire Reef, as planned by Gordon, who was the Hike leader. I refer to this one as a 'Balloon Circuit", as the way out was also the way back, giving the map picture a long (balloon) string.

The first few kilometres were a long and winding downhill on a dry but rutted bush track, at the bottom of which was our first creek crossing (no water), then up the other side of the gully to a gentle undulating track along a ridge. At various points on the hike Gordon would point out quartz reefs and remnants of gold mining that this area was known for.

We followed a made gravel road for a short while, then back onto the bush tracks again, even using a bush trail or two.

There was lovely pink heath flowering, and the silence of the bush was broken by birds (some noisy cockatoos) and the chatter amongst our hikers.

Down into another gully where we stopped at the bottom for a food and drink break, with some conveniently placed logs to sit upon.

Then up we went again, this time up a VERY steep and long incline. (where conversation ceased as we all concentrated on the climb!!)

This was followed by our final descent which found us back at the bottom of the first gully, and the final long climb back to the cars.

Chairs and thermos’s appeared out of the car boots and we sat and had our lunch (Thanks for the spare seat Andrew - I'll bring my own next time!!) It was a windy corner we chose, but not cold.

What a great first hike with the U3A Hikers. I really enjoyed it and know I will be joining in again for many more. Thank you!

Photos by Andrew










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