Randalls Bay 10 Jan 2023

 Today we are doing a wander about Randalls Bay and its environment which was a walk planned last year but deferred due to a bad weather forecast.

Today the forecast is for cloudy and somewhat cool day but that hasn't deterred the members of the group for the first walk of the 2023.

After parking the cars on Randalls Bay beach we head along to the Randalls Bay Conservation Area.

Obviously the forecast has kept the locals of the beach this morning.

After a short climb we were able to look back and take in the view of the whole beach.

Some of the more courageous of our walkers headed for the best views.

Looking towards our turnaround point in the walk.

A view down the Huon River towards Bruny Island and the Southern Ocean.

Mickey's Beach is a pleasant stop for morning tea.

We did move to the end of the beach so that the couple at the other end could enjoy their swim without our little crowd.

Another view of the Huon River entrance.

Obviously this particular tree objected to being cut down in the first place and re-sprouted from its old stump.

Short Purple Iris.

Looking back towards Randalls Bay.

Mickeys Beach from the clifftop.

Randalls Bay now in sunlight.

The sandstone cliffs at the western end of Randalls Bay.

Some of the walkers have left their packs in the cars for the stroll up "The Sugarloaf" now named Echo Sugarloaf State Reserve.

Strolling along Randalls Bay.

The start of the climb up The Sugarloaf.

Obviously one of the locals is expecting a special air delivery of mail.

This walk has been developed by FORB (Friends of Randalls Bay) a group of locals and shackowners who worked hard to put together the reserved spaces around Randalls Bay. Anyone looking for further information will find the group on Facebook.

The track work up and down Echo Sugarloaf makes for a pleasant round trip.

Including a quiet reflective dam space.

A lookout with a seat and explanatory board about the establishment of the Reserve.

Looking westward to Hartz Mountain and beyond.

A even higher view of Randalls Bay with the Hartz in the distance.

Descending the zigzag track to the beach.

A pleasant day walk with a contrast of weather enjoyed by the 17 walkers who covered just under 10kms over 3 hours with a 220 meter climb thrown in.