We catch a taxi to Kalamunda, and hit the track. It’s a short day but there is plenty of climbing to do! The walk through jarrah and casuarina is a complete delight and, in spring, you’ll see wildflowers and views immediately.

Today’s hike from Hewett’s Hut to Ball Creek has many showers. It buckets down while we eat a delicious lunch inside the cosy Mundaring Weir Hotel, which slower hikers will reach at exactly the right time.

More extraordinary wildflowers today after a night of hammering rain and storms. The day turns out to be very showery, with alternating sunshine, heavy downpours and even hail. But the bright sun and wet foliage beautifully highlight the vivid colours of spring.

Greeted by a spectacular sunrise, with mist rising from the valley, we have another short day but with some steep climbs along forest tracks. Masses of multi-coloured flowers and many expansive views make this another stunning day.

This short day comprises well-graded walking over lateritic gravel. You’ll likely arrive in camp quite early, but leisurely hikers who want to spend time at the summit tomorrow should single hut at Beraking and take the opportunity to relax. You have wildflowers and views to enjoy at camp, and be refreshed and ready for tomorrow’s big climb.

Today is an absolute treat. The vistas from Mt Dale are expansive and there are many birds through this section, including red tailed black cockatoos. Botanists will be excited by the first glimpses of Western Australia’s famous white acidic sands and the corresponding new vegetation.

A short cruisy walk after the climbs of the past few days, and packs are light before a resupply tomorrow at the highway. The flatter country is different, too, so there is lots to like with new vegetation and views.