Take a Hike with Denise

TAKE A HIKE

After weeks of constant rain, DENISE BROWNSDON seized the chance to try out a new track.

It’s nearing the end of winter here in Perth after an unusually wet July. When it’s raining non-stop, I do sometimes struggle to get motivated to head out for a hike when it’s so much warmer and drier inside. So when the sun decided to come out the other day, I took the opportunity to explore a new trail in Rockingham with my friends – Lake Cooloongup Fire Trail. We mapped it out and it appeared to be a 4km track. We all started off together and then we spread out, going at our own pace. Some ran it all, others like me walked and jogged it. This trail had a good variety of terrain to get through, giving us a few welcome challenges! The rain had left us patches of slippery mud and there were the usual sandy patches but there was also plenty of even, dry surfaces so I was able to confidently jog a fair way. What I love most about heading out to a new area is being able to enjoy some unfamiliar scenery. I’ve lived in Australia for nearly 20 years now and I am still awed by the amazing landscape and animals that can be found here.

I do encourage anyone wanting to try their hand at hiking to make sure they pack their GPS! We would have been lost without ours. The track took us a bit longer to complete as we weren’t fully sure where our turns would be. It also turned out to be nearly 6.5km instead of 4km but we couldn’t complain. After weeks of rain, it was such a great feeling to be out in the fresh air and sunshine!

With the weather starting to warm up and the days growing longer I look forward to doing some more exploring! I’m going to be heading out again with The Hike Collective soon so I look forward to reporting back next time after another awesome hike.