Day 3: Lake Ball, Lake Adelaide and Lake Meston
Very wild and wet weather overnight and it still looks menacing, so we decide to stay in the valley and abort another attempt at King David’s Peak. Instead, we head off to Lake Meston and camp at its head - we will now be a day ahead of our original plan but, in the process, have missed our easy day in Dixons Kingdom. And the track whilst clearly distinguishable is partially overgrown and with logs to climb over. The scrubbiness of the track makes this a longer day than originally expected. An enjoyable day none the less with many interesting and beautiful aspects.
Today we walked 12 km, mostly gently down hill so only climbed 100 m … but the track conditions meant it was a slow and steady day.
There is no marked track towards Lake Ball, but it’s a matter of following Jaffa Vale. The hikers in the centre look a bit confused so we decide not to follow them.
Instead, the two of us skirt the western edge and then spread out, using numerous lightly worn pads. There are far fewer hikers on this section, probably because it isn’t marked or signposted – most seem to be doing a straight out and return.
It is lovely walking and only one tiny creek to cross: much easier than our Iceland experiences.
Lake Ball. We will skirt the right hand side but, looking at the terrain, it will not be a shore walk. There is a campsite off to the left of the lake.
Mount Moriah. The weather and lighting are delightful, the walking is easy, the views beautiful.
The first of many, many bogs. It’s important to walk straight through them, not around them, or the path gets wider and wider, with more and more damage to the vegetation. It is Tasmania. Sooner or later, your feet will get wet!
The path begins to climb.
Lake Ball
The vegetation is thick and the views of the lake are sparse but beautiful.
Lake Ball Hut, where we stop for a snack - where’s Opa!
The huts are for emergency use only – bring your closed cell pad, not just your air mattress! Plenty of flat spots outside for tents.
Hmm, not quite the gentle shoreline stroll I expected! Here, crossing a small scree slope. But bonus – the views are wonderful!
Reaching the end of Lake Ball, we are following its shore now and keep turning back to savour the view.
Looking south. It is perfect hiking weather.
We meet a walking group coming the other way and show them these tiny orchids.
Lunch at Lake Adelaide. Long sleeves against the mosquitoes. A lovely spot to stop with a comfortable seat and spectacular view. Another one!
The start of a long section following the eastern edge of Lake Adelaide. It is brushy, a bit overgrown, and with quite a few fallen trees. Our pace slows but it doesn’t matter. Geoff’s conservative schedule means we’re under no time pressure and have hours yet. We have the flexibility to stop at the end of this section at a campsite at the southern end of Lake Adelaide, or continue on to Lake Meston.
Pterostylis dubia, left, and Chiloglottis right. As an orchid fan, I’m stoked to find them. Geoff always patiently waits for me to shoot them and over the years has become a pretty good spotter himself!
No pictures of the last 2.3 km section between Lake Adelaide and Lake Meston due to drizzle, but here we are at Meston. It’s a lovely campsite and we have it all to ourselves. In fact, since arriving at Lake Adelaide, we’ve seen no one. Delightful.
Time for a sponge in the lake (no soap, of course)! It’s our own private - albeit icy - spa!
Rugged up warm.
Did I say we liked our food ? My favourite Bolognese recipe!
Wow !