The hike to Ben Lomond

Decided to trek up to the summit of Ben Lomond, got great views across Queenstown and the Remarkables mountains and the lake. Heck of a climb but great to walk straight from the campsite. the walk was not bad up to the saddle then it got steep, slippery and very deep in snow as we approached the top. the summit never seemed to get closer until at last we saw it.

Amazing views and worth the climb although the descent of the first bit was bloody treacherous. We were hoping a helicopter was going to rescue us but we had to walk down, using the raher handy reeds to support our weight as we slid down the very steep mountain side. We were thigh deep in snow at times, quite a laugh really. Once back to the normal path, it was easy work. Took about 7 hours return, well worth it for the amazing views and being the only buggers at the summit! Yeah!