Have you ever wanted to be the very first person to catch a glimpse of Australia’s first sunrays of the day? Well, if so, than I have the perfect spot for you, that is of course if you don’t mind hiking 4.4km up a steep mountain and its 101 flights of stairs in the dark.
Mount Warning (or Wollumbin, meaning ‘cloud catcher’) is home to some of the most picturesque views of the sunrise in Australia, and the challenge that awaits you certainly is well worth it to catch the view. As you embark on your journey to the top of this mountain you’ll firstly want to consider sleeping during the day to ensure you’re up at the top just before the sunrises. The hike to the summit takes around two hours up and two back, so you’ll want to venture off to the mountain during the wee hours of the morning.
Of course it’s not everyday that you go on a night hike through the wild national parks of Australia, and so you’ll want to be sure to pack a jacket, warm clothes flashlights, water, light snacks to keep you going, camera and natural bug repellant. You’ll need good hiking shoes for this hike as the steep incline, chain to get you up, and the rugged terrain can be quite intimidating, especially in the dark.
When you eventually make it to the top, the sun will start to peak through the darkness, and you’ll totally get why you woke up so early to see the most mesmerizing views; one reason why tourists flock here from around the world.
Be mindful on the way down as the jagged rock and rugged terrain are not to be messed with. After this midnight climb you’ll surely be ready to take on any terrain out there.
Photo Courtesy of Flickr.com/Aidan-Sally