Eight slightly nervous walkers commenced the Larapinta from the Old Telegraph Station at Alice Springs. Sixteen days later, the walkers returned to Alice Springs (in pouring rain). They were exhausted but exhilarated by the epic End to End trek.

The scenery was spectacular, with changing vistas and vegetation. The days were long and early starts the norm. On three days over 3 hours was walked by torchlight before dawn.

Our Trek Larapinta guides (two lovely, younger “athletes”) ensured the success of the walk. They did an exemplary job supported by the operator’s systems, procedures and behind the scenes staff.

They led us, they fed us with beautiful meals, they organised us, they cared for us, and they educated us, all in a very enjoyable and professional manner.

It’s a tough walk, the 260km+ we achieved, and I am in admiration of the club members who have tackled the E2E. The trip was advertised as B+ and is capable of being done by strong B walkers, but it was a B walk plus an A walk on several days!

Highlights were flowers, swimming, briefly conversing with other walkers, gaining an appreciation of the cultural importance of areas, seeing the impact and recovery from bushfires that have occurred at various times, the collaborative spirit of the group and finally “surviving” the water crossing and the trips and falls.

For me, I am pleased to have done it. One off the bucket list.

Andrew