Katherine Gorge canoeing

We’re at the Nitmuluk National Park and I had to pinch myself when I got here - is this a campground or a resort?  The pool area would certainly have one questioning this!

We came here to do some walks and look at the picturesque and stunning Gorge.  This morning, Mark and I had an early morning walk up a steep, rocky path to get to the first lookout.  It was slightly reminiscent of Mt Taylor but the incline was much greater and the path was treacherous at times. All of that just means - we loved it!

Where were the others? Andrew took the car back into Katherine for a car service as we had already racked up 5000kms, some on dirt, and the boys were either sleeping or at the resort style pool.

I let them take it easy this morning because from 12.30pm onwards, we were hitting the water. There are four ways to see the Gorge - by helicopter, cruise boat, canoe or walking.  Of those, the ones on the water let you explore the scope and size of this natural wonder the best.  We were only able to get half day hire but that allowed us four hours on the water, with ample time to take a break at the end of the first gorge, look at some Aboriginal rock painting, have a bit of a swim in the river, and then come back.  I am so glad that we had done some canoeing in Forster this year.  Adam and I were able to pick up from that experience and work well together on our craft.  He got tired on the way back, but on the whole, I enjoyed having him as my partner and he did a fine job.  Andrew and Mark managed okay, even though he slacked off a bit at times...and the older two had a bun fight (literally).  We brought lunch with us in the canoes and they had an altercation.  It’s a shame this marred the day but these physical challenges do stretch all of us past our comfort zone and we have a lot to learn from them.

Tomorrow, we pull up stumps here, restock in town and then will head west. More daylight, warmer temperatures and wondrous creation to explore!