Roberts Ridge and back down to Nelson Lake

Very early start to begin the rest of the loop. There will up up and alot of down today. It was very windy and much cooler. (50's) A huge difference in a day. Low clouds hung in the mountains creating a gloomy effect. We missed some great views due to the clouds but they were wonderful in their own way. Winds were 30-40 mph with stronger gusts in open areas.


We hiked up to the ridge. Wind suits, hats, gloves were required. It was nice to have an actual train. We had some tough bouldering again as we crossed the face of a mountain. We had some scrambling up loose gravel and sand (scree) and then back to the ridge. The wind was blowing so hard at times that it almost knocked you down. Some more amazing views.








Had a few monments where the clouds came up and we hiked in the "fog". It took us about 4 hours to  hike the ridge.




The sun came out, we removed many layers and rest for lunch at a small shelter. About an hour to go we were told but it was all downhill. Very steep switchbacks thru the woods. This ws harder than going up. We reached an open area and it became very warm. It was hot and dry and there was loose gravel and sand. We could see the lake.

We slid often. I slipped and fell and landed on my left knee. Sat for a minute, then realized I was bleeding. Rolled up my pants to find a gaping cut and blood. A young, strong hiker asked if he could carry my pack down, so he did. Mel cleaned and dressed my knee. It was slow and steady back down the rest of the way. I probably could have used a coupl stitches, byt Marty had Steri-strips and we did that. Went to a local cafe for fantastic fish and chips. Unpack and re-pack for the following day. Stayed in Punakaiki Village.

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