Days 13-16: We made it to the Milford Track for the hike!

Our backpacks were a bit heavier than the ones of the other hikers (known as "trampers" in these parts), but we figured the packs would lighten up as we ate the food in them. Raj insisted on packing 4 waterbottles, realizing later that perhaps that wasn't the brightest idea in a rainforest with 99.5% pure water. As soon as we arrived the rain began. And continued. And continued. And continued for 4 straight days (well, it cleared up for a few hours on the 3rd day).

We stayed in little huts that were spaced along the trail. At 2 points we were stopped because of avalanches ("No worries!"), and had to be taken over by helicopter. That's 2 trips over windy mountains, with a 10% failure rate for helicopters here. Hmmm... best not to think about it - just enjoy the ride. Again, "No worries!"

At one point in the trip we climbed behind (felt like "under") a waterfall as tall as the Sears Tower (over 1000 feet). The crashing water was terrifying & exhilarating at the same time! In fact, that probably sums up the whole 4 day hike.

As we ate the food, the packs weren't feeling any lighter; our legs were getting weaker. Mysteriously, Tammy's pack got much lighter while Raj's got much heavier along the way.

Immediately after the hike, still scummy after walking through waist-deep mud & not bathing for 4 days, we took a cruise boat tour of Milford Sound fjords, where we saw wild dolphins, seals, penguins, and more waterfalls! As soon as we finished the hike, the rain stopped & the sun came out.

Day 17: This day was devoted to sleeping late, hot showers, laundry, & then driving 8 hours to Christchurch to pitch a tent.