Island Hikers explore the Yarra River

Yarra is an Amerindian word which means “ever– flowing” and refers to the river’s non-stop revitalising energy. Its source originates from two major tributaries –the Limon river in Morne La Croix and the Northern El Tucuche Watershed. It flows north-westerly through uncharted territory and reaches the coast at Yarra Bay. at its mouth, the river is calm, and the secluded sea front is a favourite spot for a beach lime. at the river’s upper course the kinetic energy of the water eroded the bands of rock to form the Yarra Gorge. the erosion of the riverbed occurs through many methods. “solution” is the process whereby the river water dissolves some of the minerals in rocks and soil. “abrasion” is another process by which material carried by the river erode the bed and banks.

“Hydraulic action” is the force of the river water wearing away the bed and banks. “attrition” is another method in which stones transported downstream are thrown against each other and gradually worn away. the landform cut into a narrow, steep-sided,
V-shaped valley and as the river meanders, interlocking slopes jut from the slopes of each bend. the clean, filtered water is one of the finest in the Northern range and the rocks are elegantly carved into fascinating shapes. the journey starts with a walk through the intricate Yarra Forest to the upper part of the river. The route to the top of the gorge continues downstream along the riverbed for another 30 minutes.

There is a confluence of the Limon and Yarra tributary located just above the entrance to the canyon, which is a welcoming spot to relax and re-group for the exploration. There is an optional forest trail for those not wishing to venture through the gorge. Inside the gorge, requires one to swim through pools and paddle through fallen debris. the exploration requires one to walk along the riverbed and get wet, however, swimming through the gorge is optional. Life jacket will be provided to all participants

Preparation tips for the hike: Leave an extra change of clothing and footwear in the vehicle. Long pants preferred along with good hiking shoes. Bring along sandwiches, snacks, water, thirst quencher drinks, personal medication and insect repellent.
electronic items such as car remotes, cell phones, and cameras, please leave in the car or use a certified waterproof pouch to secure them. rating: 4 moderate (seven years and up) Hiking time to the top of gorge: 1? hours assembly: 7 am entrance to Central Bank auditorium or 7.45 am sam’s Bar, Maracas Bay. Optional Maxi transport available, please contact Mario to book For more info: www. islandhikers.com.