John Gardner Pass - Day 5

Wow - today was the best day of the trek going over John Gardner pass - the highest point on the trek. We had to negotiate lots of mud and rivers but once we got above the tree line it turned to loose rocks and then snow. As we came over the top of the pass the full force of the Patagonian wind hit us in the face and left us gasping for breath as we looked down over the vast Glacier Grey and fumbled with gloves and cameras.

On previous days we have been checking our watches when we set out and then saying we'll stop after x hrs for a break and at x hrs for lunch etc and this way I seem to focus too much on when I can stop and have rest and when we are likely to arrive at the campsite. Today we changed tac didn't look at the time and just stopped when we needed to. It doesn't get dark till 11pm so it really doesn't matter what time we arrive. And I felt much happier and there were times when I forgot the huge pack on my back digging into my shoulders and making my knees ache like hell and just enjoyed the most amazing scenery I think I have ever seen.

The campsite tonight was really rustic but lovely - hole in the floor loo job, washing in the stream etc, but it is sheltered and you can see the glacier through the trees.