Standards: Distance: 11.3km Duration: 4hrs Elevation Gain: 565m

Alternatives: Distance: 10.5km Duration: 4hrs 10min Elevation Gain: 394m

Coal Spit Spur Track is a new tramp on our BTC calendar but we were aware of the forecast threat of a heatwave followed by afternoon rain, which fortunately in the Craigieburn Forest area did not eventuate.  Instead we enjoyed close to perfect weather conditions for this new venture. Our full bus encountered a number of traffic stops, this somewhat delaying our tramp to a later start.

Upon our arrival all were delighted to be greeted by a lovely beach forest commencing with Mistletoe track, this providing tree canopy sheltered tramping, starting on a slight upward slope enabling trampers to gain their second breath before taking a short tea and biscuit break.  We recommenced on a now significantly steeper ascent until arriving at the foot of Helicopter Hill. Here the Standards were given the option of dumping their backpacks and climbing this hill to take in the magnificent vistas offered by this 15-to-20-minute climb. This excursion was bypassed by the Alternatives but otherwise both groups followed the same route.  Helicopter Hill has an elevation of 1256m and concluded the main climb of the day. 

After grabbing our backpacks, we headed down the Luge track amongst more open bush, which took us to a hairpin bend that pointed us in the direction of the Coal Spit Spur Track. We continued on seeking a suitable place for lunch, which we eventually found on the left of the track revealing a beautiful steep sided valley slightly hidden by scrub and bush, which we passed through to expose this magnificent vista and picnic spot. After lunch we continued mainly on a downward descent eventually catching up with the Alternative tail enders and having to cross a number of not insignificant rivers and streams, this helping to ensure that my boots were as clean as they had been for some considerable time! As usual, towards the end of our tramp, our expectation of finding the bus around the next corner proved to be illusory as some further track ascent was needed before concluding our tramp. One has to concede that the removal of one’s boots upon arrival at the always welcoming sight of Leopard bus is a highlight of a day’s tramping, this additionally providing us all with some sense of achievement and wellbeing. It was decided not to stop on our long journey home partly because of our late start and similarly delayed journey home because of various traffic events. 

I need to acknowledge Kate’s indirect input to this story by providing pen and paper and a number of pics mainly taken on Helicopter Hill.

Text by Keith L

Morning tea on Mistletoe Track.

The Lyndon Saddle.

Making the descent of Helicopter Hill.

Standards on the summit of Helicopter Hill.

Crossing Manson Creek.