Big Bend Return: Boowinda Gorge & Reflection Pool

Having reached the halfway point and after a healthy hikers lunch of fruit and nuts at Bigbend, we returned via Boowinda Gorge and the Reflection Pool

Boowinda gorge was stunning. Sheer sandstone cliffs rising a few hundred metres above us, separated by only a few meters. The clouds had begun to form, so we missed the experience of the sun shining into the gorge at about midday. It felt like rain was on the way so we turned back after about 1500 meters and made our way towards the Reflection pool.

Lower Left: a hiker gives a sense of scale at Boowinda Gorge

Boowinda continued like this for about 8km. We turned after 1.5

We were fortunate in that the sun appeared at the right time to enjoy the dancing, moving reflections. It’s a sight that defies description, for the sun’s rays playfully dance upon the undulating surface of a pristine pool of water. The resulting reflections transform the rocky cave into a canvas of glistening patterns that are simply breathtaking, though regrettably challenging to capture in photographs. The source of this captivating movement is a symphony of elements: the gentle caress of the wind, the graceful skimming of birds across the water’s surface, or even a delicate leaf descending onto the pool.

Hard to capture on film, but if you look at the rock face above the pool you’ll see the patterns shimmering.

Serendipity smiled upon us as the sun gracefully emerged, casting its radiant light precisely when we needed it most to witness a mesmerizing spectacle: Hiker T, trying to capture the remarkable shimmering patterns at the reflective pool.

As we returned to the trailhead, a gentle, misty rain started to descend upon us. The journey had been quite an expedition, with a few challenging creek crossings along the way. However, it was definitely manageable for those in good health and brimming with energy. Throughout our return trek, we were accompanied by a subtle aroma of smoke from a nearby park boundary burn off, adding a unique touch to the air.

A gentle misty rain developed as we made our way back.

After completing the hike, we made our way back to the Sandstone camp area, where our cosy teardrop camper, Wotty, awaited us. Settling into comfortable chairs, we took a moment to rehydrate and rejuvenate ourselves. Soon enough, hunger struck, and we prepared a delicious meal, savouring the joy of outdoor cooking. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we ignited the campfire, its warm glow adding to the enchanting ambiance of the night.

The subtle aroma of smoke filled the air

Gazing across the landscape, we noticed the light of the burnoff illuminating the clouds hanging low over the next ridge, creating a mesmerizing spectacle under the dark night sky. It was a breathtaking sight, one that left us feeling grateful and humbled by the wonders of nature. The perfect ending to an adventurous day, we cherished the moments spent in nature’s embrace, grateful for the beauty that surrounded us.

The fire burned well into the night