Mt Edwards as seen from the Lake Moogerah barbeque area

We had another mid-week walk planned for today however we were a little apprehensive as the forecast was for showers. After a wet day yesterday and waking to overcast conditions today, I was sure we would need our rain coats. Nevertheless we were looking forward to the walk and often it is quite pleasant walking in damp conditions. So we climbed Mount Edwards in the Moogerah Peaks National Park with Teresa of Horizon Guides as planned.

Teresa’s description of the walk is:

Mt Edwards (Moogerah Peaks NP) Approx 4 hrs return Moderate
Date: Wednesday 29 May 2013
Description: The trail begins at the Moogerah Dam wall. This little peak has some great viewpoints and the effort of the continuous moderate climb rewards the hiker with terrific views over the Fassifern’s farmland and to the Main Range beyond. The forest is open eucalypt and usually there is plenty of birdlife and wildflowers. After a relaxed time on the summit we return by the same trail, losing elevation all the way.

The route overlaid on Google Maps

We parked at the barbeque area at Lake Moogerah before setting off on our walk. The walk commenced by crossing the dam wall to the national park. From here on it was a rough bush track all the way to the summit.

This fellow greeted us as we started.

Mt Greville across the lake

It was a leisurely walk. We stopped often to take in views or other things of interest.

As we crossed the wall, the clouds broke up and the sun came out. We ended up having a glorious day for the walk. It was actually quite hot lower down on the mountain but as we climbed we were in a pleasant breeze that kept us cool.

The climb up the mountain was quite steep and I thought strenuous. We stopped often to look at orchids, birds and butterflies. Of course the changing bush and rock formations were worth a pause to take it all in.

The Nodding Greenhood Orchids aren’t in focus but there is a real garden happening here

This rock shelf was an interesting place.

We saw a number of butterflies

Moss growing on the rocks

The fruit on this vine was very colourful. It was quite common on the walk.

Helmet or Fairy Lantern Orchid (Corybas barbarae)

There was always something interesting to stop for.

Some moss growing in the shelter of a log.

This lovely area was just below the summit

Fungi growing on a log

And here we are – the summit!

We made the summit where we had lunch and a cup of tea before taking in the views. It was still reasonably cloudy so we didn’t have clear views but it was still spectacular.