TrailRunning6:58:24 29.09 km (14:23 / km) +1594m11:17 / km ahr:114 max:156
Frenchies.
big days but not manageable. wet and no vis all weekend, but had glimpses of just how amazing the terrain is. got to tahune hut alone around 4pm, so had <2hr sunlight left. started up frenchies. got just past the summit fork but decided it was too lowlight and scary to do now solo (and descend in the dark). Tried to summit the next morning, but even wetter and less vis. turned back at a waterfall boulder that i couldn't reliably climb up (with a cliff behind me). I chose life. A bit disappointing to not get up there, and missing out on some huge views, but very happy to now be familiar with the trail and what it involves, and to have another solo fastpack under my belt, and in bad conditions.
next time i think i'd drive the afternoon before and sleep in the car so i can leave at 7am... still think i'd do it in 2 days (because the huts are so damn good, but just need more of a window to get the summit
Getting a bit more familiar with my setup. Pack list Tent - this could prob change down to a tarp for frenchies, or nothing Sleeping bag - this could perhaps change down to e-bag if not planning overnight, or thermal liner and e-bag mat - need longer camp clothes (thermal top and bottom) - could do thinner stove - maybe not required for 1 night pillow e-bag headtorch poles - not actually any good for frenchies... too narrow and technical puffer jacket - a nice luxury overtrouser - absolutely must have! wore them all weekend overmits and merino gloves were the go