MOUNTAINEERING.

Wanganui Herald, Volume XXXXVI, Issue 13278, 18 January 1911, Page 5

MOUNTAINEERING.

FIORDLAND AND THE OTACO ALPS.

New Route to Milford Sound.

(Per United Press Association). GORE, January 18

Messrs Grave (Oaniaru), Talbot (Greyrnouth), and LyttJo (Gore) have returned from an exploration to Fiordland, extending over three weeks. They succeeded in finding a practicable route from Milford Sound to Lake Wakatipu. The route was really discovered last year, but on..this occasion a new track was found over Grave Pass, cutting 1200 feet off the ascent, and removing other difficulties. The passes rise to a height of 5000 feet by the new route. Tourists may journey from To Anau to Milford, thence by Grave’s route to Lake Howden, and joining the Greenstone route to Lake Whakatipu and the fiords. Magnificent views of the mountain scenery may he had, notably Mt. Thkoko, rising to a height of 9042 feet, practically from sea level. On Saturday, the patry ascended to the summit of Mt. Balloon, 6000 feet, being the first who have done so. The mountain was attacked from the northern ridge, and proved a somewhat hazardous undertaking, the surface comprising loose roek to a great extent. The ascent and descent were made in ono day.