Harvey

Collie to Naglang Boodja Hut - 38 klms

As is my routine I like to be up and away as early as possible but my escape was rather precarious. Not so sure about the safety of my bike and belongings overnight - I’d snuck it in, upstairs to the first floor. It gave me a chance to restock etc. That was fine, but trying to exit quietly down the fire escape with self closing doors only to find out that the back gate was closed was a bother. So, bike parked I had to re-enter the pub via the ground floor back door and out through reception.
Collie is a busy town partly because of the mining and also the caravaners and tourists and blokes on bikes opting for a stay over in Collie. Whilst most of the accommodation is all but full most nights, it appears like me things begin early. At 5:45am things were stirring as huge trucks were rolling through town and Maccas just happened to be open and the place to be. With a muffin and a coffee under my belt I was away.
After the effort of last couple of days I felt like I might to be able to make it to the small town of Boyanup about 65 kllometres away.
From Collie, the first 28 kilometres was terrific, not so heavy going following bush and farm tracks close to the major Coalfields Highway. I even took time to miss a marker and by chance viewed the Collie reservoir and the vista was stunning in the early light.
Back on track and things were cruising along just fine. It was about 11 km from where I’m staying tonight that I hit the so described fun section. Granted, fun for some but as I’m still getting used to the bond of bike person and track it wasn’t great fun. As a matter of fact those with the skills would have a ball descending the (not so) smooth and relatively (very) steep and tight turning switchbacks. After which you cross the paved River Road then climb for a few kilometres. An arduous task!
Further on there was yet another tricky descent and whilst all indications of the trail went left and with prior knowledge I turned right - deliberately!
This small diversion along a sealed road lead to Honeymoon Pool on the Collie river. This is a local camping area and picnic ground with the most beautiful swimming hole. I was totally whacked and the water beckoned. It was cold but oh so therapeutic. After a few dips and a chance to regroup I was headed for tonight’s resting place. Not before encountering a last descent. It is quite rocky and has several more steep switchbacks.
The guide notes state that - “Experienced mountain bikers really enjoy this part of the trail, but many others find it a bit hard. (I did!) It is likely the most technically difficult part of the entire Munda Biddi Trail.” Gosh I hope so!
Set on a heavily forested hillside, this hut is a peaceful place and I called today’s aspirations finished. I’ll reset my goals in the morning. Boyanup and beyond …
Tent pitched and I’m washed, fed and exhausted.Read more