This morning I woke up to the most perfect weather. Not a cloud in the sky. Not a breeze in the trees. I just wanted to be outside! So I got ready quick, checked out of my room, and was on the Hooker Valley Trail by 8:45. The sun was just starting to warm up the air. It was silent except for the chirping of birds. I can't fully describe the greatness of this morning. The view of the mountains just kept getting better, the further down the trail I went. I was just so happy. It was an easy walk, with a few lookout points and stops along the way. An alpine memorial for those who have died on the mountains in the national park. Mueller Glacier viewpoint, two long swing bridges.. The trail ended at Mueller Lake, which sits below Mt. Cook, and is a gray color. Enormous ice chunks float in it. I stopped there at the top of the trail for about a half hour, elated. One of the best parts of my whole trip. This place is gold.
I only wish I would have come here with my parents when they were here on the South Island. I think they really would have loved it too. Welp, maybe next time!
I got back to the village around 1 o'clock and ate my sandwich and apple at the Hermitage hotel up on the balcony which has a perfect view of the mountains. The sun was still shining brightly. I was bummed I had to leave. But also so grateful I was able to hike around the area today, since yesterday turned out so bad.
I caught my bus to Cromwell arriving just before 5:30. I walked the 1.2 km to my hostel, which is also a holiday park - like a KOA. Maybe the worst hostel yet. At least as far as management goes. Very unhelpful, unfriendly, and offputting. Yeah, don't like 'em. But I'm in my own room, so there's the silver lining. Getting up early tomorrow. Bus to Dunedin leaves at 8:35 and I have to walk back to the bus stop.
Just two more weeks..
