John Aalders (John A aka Grey Tortoise)

Track Towns and Supplies

• How many days did you stay in Track Towns? 7
• Did you have any issues finding food/supplies? No
• Prepared all my own, just sourced fresh fruit in towns

Particular Track Towns that you would return to:

• Dwellingup
• Collie
• Donnelly River Village
• Walpole
• Denmark
• Albany

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Your Story or Advice for Others

General Comments
Begin the journey with an open mind, open up to others especially those that are doing an end to end... you will find them being your "track family" on the long walk. There are a lot of comments regarding the waterlogged Pingerup Plains, just accept them as part of the walk. Yes, they may be challenging at times, but you have to do them if on an End to End. Walking poles are of great benefit in this section.

Your Best Equipment
Walking poles, these are a must! Long (tall) gaiters, beware of snakes. Broad-brimmed hat. Track app - FarOut, truly helpful.

Your Worst Equipment
Waterproof pants Umbrella Diary

Advice for Others
Be wary of what you think you may need to carry on the trail. If you think you MAY need it, leave it behind. Only carry essential gear. Prepare yourself well... train on hills with a half to three quarters loaded pack. Do not minimise your training, being fit and prepared will make the journey a lot more enjoyable.

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Trip Details

How you completed the Bibbulmun Track:

• All at once

• How many days did it take you to complete the Track? 49
• Who did you complete the Track with? Solo (primarily)
• Was undertaking your hike the PRIMARY/MAIN purpose of your TRAVEL from where you currently live? Yes
• What first prompted you to walk the Bibbulmun Track? Word of mouth/friends
  

What did you use to navigate the Track?

• BT Guidebooks
• App (please specify)
• - FarOut

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Your Experience

• Availability of information: Excellent
• Amount of Wildlife Encountered: Good

Favourite Section
Gregory Brook to Pemberton

Highlight of your trip
The tall karri and mixed forests. Orchids, so many... and I was so fortunate to walk with people who were totally into orchids!!!!

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