Another experience I will never try to forget, was our hike to Mt. Doom {Lord of the Rings. No? Nerd alert #sorryimnotsorry} also known as the Tongariro Crossing. All jokes aside, this trail took all of our efforts. It took us seven hours from start to finish and, at one point, we found ourselves climbing on a complete upwards vertical angle.
But, even after the pure exhaustion set in, we couldn’t deny that the views were 100% worth it.
We almost couldn’t take on the monster hike due to weather conditions being too windy. The heartbreak was real at 5 AM that morning. However, we waiting so very patiently and were told which portion of the trails we could attempt that afternoon. We had come all this way and did not want to be rejected the opportunity to hike. The bus arrived and we were overjoyed!
We packed granola bars, bananas, and enough water to satisfy a camel. We wore layers to prepare for the ever-changing terrain. We got a great nights sleep the previous night. And then, we hiked and hiked and hiked and hiked and hiked and hiked. We hiked up, down, and entirely through cloud at one point.
From the moment we stepped on the trail, the beauty was indescribable.
I had never endured an excursion like this one. Sharing this type of experience with my best friends was more than I could ask for. We encouraged one another and supported each other with every water break. Alex and Issac ensured we didn’t slack and fall behind. Alexis, Mandy and I ensured we didn’t miss a great photo opportunity.
^ those views though!
I couldn’t have been more satisfied with the hike and with myself for accomplishing it. I was so proud when we arrived at the top. Mother Earth was good to New Zealand and most of the landscapes throughout the country have remained untouched.
If you get the chance to hike to Mt. Doom, you must take advantage! Although our course was not the traditional hike you would experience up the mountain {due to weather conditions}, it was a great alternative. We were just lucky to have the opportunity.
Be aware of the pesky, ever-changing weather in New Zealand, and pack extra layers for the pesky, ever-changing terrain.
She’s got her head in the clouds and feet on the ground.