I'm after some advice for a relative new hiker. I'm planning a two day hike (might be solo) Katoomba to Katoomba.
Out by Six Foot Track, Megalong Valley Road to Dunphys campground, Bellbird ridge trail, Medlow Gap trail, Medlow Gap - 22.5K
Back via Mount Debert, Tarros Ladder and Narrow Neck fireroad.
I've done the six foot track recently, from the Jenolan end (where the track cross the Jenolan caves road) to Katoomba and camped overnight at Coxs river campground.
I've got good equipment, light, Satellite/emergency messaging.
I'm pretty happy with Day one, it looks very straight forward with not to much in the way of accents.
I'm a little concerned with day two and making my way to the top of Tarros ladder.
A couple of questions ?
1. What's the path up from Medlow Gap up to Mt Debert like ? Is it easy to follow ? how much rock scrambling ?
2. Is there an alternative to the Mt Debert route ? I see on a lot of the maps there is a Cedar ridge trail and little Cedar Gap trail winding its way up on the other side ? Is it a viable alternative ?
3. What about the ladder itself ? I understand there is a way up that avoids the ladder if I thinks is a bit dodgy - Duncans Pass
4. Also, for day 1, what about turning on to the Medlow Gap management trail just after Corral Creek - Is that as easy as the Megalong Valley route - would it save a few K and a bit of effort ?
I think I should be ok with the ladder but just want an alternative in case its wet or I'm solo and concerned with falls.
regards
Shaun