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Today was always going to be mammoth – 3000m total climbing over 100km. Heavy rain and thunderstorms forecast for tomorrow set me this challenge – cycle to Thredbo in one day. It was a stunning day cycling in the glorious sun, steep up and steep down, under the imposing presence of Mt Koscuiszko.

Arrival in Thredbo

I left just after dawn through the low hanging fog, and over a few small passes with views over the Murray River – a much smaller stream up at these heights.

Early morning mist

View over the Murray

A huge chicken schnitzel and 2 litres of milk later, I left Khancoban – the last piece of civilization before Thredbo. The road rose to 1000m before descending again (with lots of uphill bits too) to around 300m where it had started. At the top was the most spectacular view. Opposite, on the other side of the valley, was the ridge of the highest mountains in Australia. The sky was blue, and the air was oh, so clear. These mountains are spiritual for the aboriginal people, and I could feel why.

View of the highest mountains in Australia

A few climbs and descents later (returning to almost the same altitude I started the day), the slog up to Thredbo began in earnest. And it was steep. I really didn’t think I would make it, with plan B camping in the last marked spot half-way up the last climb. The first 10km were the steepest, and as I continued crawling up the mountain, I realised I was going to make it. As I got higher, I entered into a spooky forest with just white, leafless trunks. Everywhere. They covered the sides of the mountains all the way to the top.

White trees

At the highest point of today

At the highest point of today

In Thredbo it was time for a dormitory room (all to myself), and a big dinner. I have deserved it. ☺