January 6, 2026
Pelorus Bridge to Middy Ck Hut
TA km marker 1851.8 to 1878.8
Hiked today: 27.0 km

As planned we were up before six and made our way up to the tables at the campground where we ate brekky and refilled our water bottles, then we were off towards the Richmond Range. The first 14 km was along a gravel road through farmland. We passed signs to slow down in case of cattle on the road but the animals were all secure in their pastures.

Once we commenced the forest trail, the terrain became more challenging – steeper ascents with lots of tree roots across the path. I had a couple of falls and at one point lost a water bottle beside the trail. Unfortunately I didn’t notice its loss until we stopped for a drink further down the track – too far to go back (One of the hikers behind us picked it up and brought it to camp).

We crossed a number of swing bridges spanning the river below and on the 3rd one, Rob saw one of his bottles fall to the riverbank below. Fortunately, he was able to clamber down and retrieve it without too much trouble.

We stopped for lunch at the first hut (Captains Ck hut) but had just enough energy to continue for the 5km distance to Middy Hut. We were the first to arrive and claimed bunks in the hut. There are 6 beds and about 15 people so the other 9 will have to camp. Curtis hasn’t arrived yet but perhaps he stopped at Captains Ck Hut.

Soon after arriving we popped into the river for a cool off. We are glad of fine weather, but the climbing is tough in the heat.