Eucumbene to Tabletop

This five day walk explores some of the country between the Eucumbene River and Tabletop in Kosciuszko National Park. Though the country is remote and sometimes rough, the pace will be relaxed. On days 1 to 4, we will only be carrying our full packs for 5 to 7 km; on the last day for 9 km. Optional side trips will take up the rest of the time. Day 1: From Sawyers Hut 4 km on fire trail, wade the Eucumbene River at a vehicle ford, then 2 km off track to camp in lower Tabletop Creek. An optional pack-free side trip into the Eucumbene Gorge with its many cascades. Day 2: climb a spur 300 vert metres and then along the tops at around 1600 m altitude to camp on an unnamed creek. Optional afternoon side trip to trig 1626 to take in the view. Day 3. Walking now mainly in alpine grasslands, we climb a further 100 vertical metres to meet the TableTop Trail, from which there is a side trip to explore a complex of rocks. Then descend 80 vert metres to camp in the head of Temperance Creek. Day 4: Climb over Tabletop Mtn and down to Broken Dam Hut. Day 5: Walk back to the Eucumbene River on fire trail, wade it, then, for a break from the fire trail, return via the grassy valley of Rocky Plains Creek to a shuffled car on the highway. Requires experience in multi-day off-track walking. Highlights will be cascades, wildflowers, views, a remote feel and passing beside some healthy alpine bogs. Lowlights may be, at this time of year, some flies and ants.