On 25 September 2004, John, Meng and myself went snow hiking up Mount Bogong (1986m ASL) in the Alpine National Park. John and myself attempted the same hike 2 weeks before but were turned back due to bad weather. This time, we managed to get to the summit via the Staircase Spur in 5 hours after a few minor slips and falls.

Going up wasn't easy in waist deep snow with no snow shoes. At 1700m ASL, I was trying to convince John and Meng to turn back because we were constantly getting bogged down by snow. I had to climb out of shoulder deep snow hole once! Meng had a sore knee on the way back the steep Staircase Spur and we walked slowly down the track. John and I had to share Meng's backpack to reduce the pain in his knees. Luckily, we got down to the flat section before dark and walked back to the car in almost complete darkness.

It was one of the best hikes I have done and hopefully I'll be back next year! If interested, take a look at the summer trip photos as well.