We had originally planned to go to Nina Hut, but, you know, when you walk with kids, you need to be flexible. We started at Palmer Lodge, and it soon became clear that this was going to be a long trip. The kids took their time exploring the forest, creek, ants, rocks, and everything else that seems ordinary to us adults. Elliot tramped well, though he still struggled with flat bits, immediately asking to be picked up. And I struggle to find a balance between making him walk and picking him up. I want him to enjoy tramping, but I also want him to walk. It’s tricky.
Anyway, once we arrived at Nina Valley Campsite, Miranda just asked, “Oh wow, what do you want more?” Fair enough, Miranda, this will do! Nina Valley Campsite is a beautiful flat grassy spot next to Nina River. We spent the rest of the afternoon chilling by a campfire, playing in the creek, and chasing kids around to make sure they didn’t get lost. We also went for a swim in a blue pool under a swing bridge. Beautiful place. It was a great day, and if I could change one thing, it would be the sandflies, which were quite brutal around there.
During the night, a cheeky possum visited us. It went from tent to tent, trying to get into our food. I actually realized at night that our food bag was missing. When I went outside, I found a possum dragging the bag into the forest. The bag was recovered; however, the possum managed to have a feast on our bread (see the photos). Oh well…
The day after, we walked back. The kids were visibly tired, so I think it was a good decision not to make them walk all the way to Nina Hut. I’m sure that we’ll be back in a couple of years when the kids are bigger and more keen. The track is easy to follow by the way, with small ups and down which was very entertaining for kids.
Stats: 4.4 km each way, 4 h each way at toddler’s pace, 70 m ascent each way
Participants: Michal Klajban, Anna, Elliot (3y), Nico, Ira, Adrian (2y), Miranda, Bernard, Mia
Tramped on 6-7th January 2023.
Photos
Map – IN
Max elevation: 655 m
Min elevation: 629 m
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