Northern Beaches, here we come!

What.A.Day.Of.Hiking!

     Megan and I had a mission- we were going to walk by as many beaches as possible (while allotting a little energy for the return to ICMS).  The beautiful landscape, variety of beaches, friendly people, and amazing weather make the northern beaches one of the best places to visit in Sydney.  Just pick up a Sydney Travelors Guide or any tourist information and I am sure that the northern beaches would be listed as a top site to see!

     And lucky us, because we did not have to take a ferry or any transportation to start this trek, because the location of ICMS was perfect for the start of this hike.  The plan was this: begin at ICMS and walk past Manly Beach first, then continue to the north.

     In the morning, we went on a small 3.5 mile hike around NorthHead.  Now, I can't remember why- maybe as a preparation for our super-intense one that we had planned, or because we did not think that our legs would be GEL at the end of the day after walking so many miles, or maybe it was because our time in Sydney was winding down and we wanted to fill our days full will adventure.  Very full with adventure!

     Megan and I walked by Shelly Beach, Manly Beach, Queenscliff Beach, Curl Curl, Dee Why, and Long Reef.  We continued walking to Long Reef point, where we were able to see Collaroy Beach and figured that it was a perfect place to turn around! 

     Though I must admit that we might have looked a little goofy- mostly because I had my ipod earphones hanging out of the backpack so we could listen to some tunes while we hiked.  We felt like serious, prepared hikers.  Sure, I know that people were wondering where the music was coming from. . .but they should know it is coming from us, the "walking jukeboxes," haha.

     Though we were absolutely EXHAUSTED when we got back (especially walking up Darley Road which is the steepest, highest hill EVER), it was such a cool experience.  Later on that night, I put our course in the mapmyrun.com to figure out the mileage and it was 6 miles one way + 6 miles back + 3.5 miles in the morning = 15.5 miles!!!  Through sand, dirt trails, and pavement. . .What.An.Adventure!

Our Route