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A
great adventure with magnificent
scenery.
This is a contrasting south-western
environment of rugged mountain
scenery with broad, deep valleys of
small lakes and tarns. Composed of
metamorphic quartzite, the majestic
Cap dominates the wild terrain.
Access is from the Lyell Highway
across the Loddon Plains through
pristine rainforests, containing
Huon Pine and a diverse range of
endemic plant life. An ascent, from
the foot of Frenchmans Cap is not
difficult. From the summit, a vista
of far-reaching, breathtaking
grandeur is experienced. This is a
camp based tour, but good huts are
available.
Day 1:
Party members meet at Paddy Pallin
110 George Street Launceston by
8.30am Outfitting completed, travel
180 km. Via Great Lake Highway to
Lake St. Clair. Alt 800 meters and
onto the start of the 5-day return
walk to Frenchman’s Cap.
A six-hour walk across the Franklin
Hills, through the Loddon River
Valley and to Lake Vera. Alt. 700
meters. Overnight camp.
Day 2:
Six to seven hours walking. Skirt
Lake Vera and ascend through forest,
steeply at times, to the Barron
Pass. Magnificent views weather
permitting. Pass through a
rock-strewn area and follow lengthy
leads to Lake Tahune, at the foot of
the Frenchmen. Prevailing
outstanding conditions can be
maximised with a quick climb of the
Cap. Establish camp. A good small
hut is available. Alt. 900 metres.
Day 3:
Opportunity to leisurely ascend
Frenchman’s Cap 1443 Meters. Take
lunch and stay on mountain for much
of the day. Fantastic views if
conditions allow. A shorter stay is
optional. Climb the Lions Head.
Explore under the massive South East
face of the Cap. Other interesting
features in vicinity.
Day 4:
Over same route, walk out to South
Loddon River. Passing Lake Thune,
Lake Vera en-route to over overnight
camp at South Loddon River.
Day 5:
Continue to Franklin River Crossing
for lunch. Meet transport 3 p.m.
Transfer back to Launceston arriving
around 6:30pm. |
