Friday 19 May - Mitchell Falls

Another beautiful day greeted us and we had time to take in our surroundings at camp.

View across the creek from out tent.

View from our 'window'

Mitchell Falls walk and heli return was the big day today. We had taken the risk booking our trip so early, that the roads may be closed and this was encountered on our first day, but all roads to Mitchell Falls were open and we were anticipating seeing a good amount of water still pouring over the falls.

After getting organised those who were not walking in – by this time our guide has pressured those he knew full well would be unable to do this walk – we headed off on our hike, eight of us. The remaining ten had to fly in.

This walk was not particularly gruelling in terms of the nature of the track, but much of it was on paths with no shade and on the rock shelfs the heat radiated off the red rocks. So it was a very hot walk.

Plenty of water to cross though, so I simply dunked my hat in the water and this helped keep me cool.

Some of the highlights:
- Little Mertens falls

There were some tricky sections where rock clambering was necessary

Tucked away from the track is some aboriginal rock

Many people would miss these drawings

As ever George explained the detail and significance

- Walk under Little Mertens

This rock art was hidden behind the curtain of the waterfall

- Big Mertens Falls

- Mitchell River and crossing

George thought there may have been a way to cross here to save some time

Top of Mitchell Falls

Incoming helicopter

Unfortunately the water was too deep here

Across on the other side the rest of our group awaits

It was difficult to see where the safe foot falls were

I made it - that was very tricky and a bit scary. I did not want to fall into the water.

- Mitchell Falls

Trees simply grow wherever the seed lands

Kimberley Heath

The heli flight out

No room in the helicopters for our guides - so they had to walk back the way we had come

It was a fabulous and very rewarding day. We returned to our tented camp where it was time for a dip in the creek before getting ready for dinner. We had an unexpected visit by the owner of the company who talked about the development of tourism in the area. He also came around and spoke to the guests about how they were finding their trip and if there was anything that could be done better or differently. Comments were taken very seriously as the following day we had brewed coffee available for guests.