Ayers Rock Ascent

 

Just prior to departing Ayers Rock, the expedition checked one last time to see if it was possible to climb the magnificent megalith.  As luck would have it, the wind had calmed down enough on top of the rock to allow for an ascent.

 

Lord Bailey on the ascent chain.

 

 

 

 

 

One cannot appreciate the true scale of Ayers Rock until one climbs to the top and circumnavigates it around the base.  This thing is HUGE!

 

 

The high point of Ayers Rock.

 

 

 

 

 

 

An eagle of some sort saying g’day.

 

 

 

Customary lithographs taken atop high places.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Descending to the waiting expedition vehicles.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Falling off the roof of the world.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contemplating The Olgas.

 

 

As one can see, it is a significant, steep ascent not to be taken lightly.

 

 

Lord Bailey partway through the descent.

 

A ranger vehicle ensuring the safety of expeditionary staff.

 

We were some of the last people to come off the rock.  Shortly after the expedition began the ascent, the park service shut down access due to high wind threats.  It was lucky that we were in the right place at the right time.

Sunrise at Ayers Rock

 

The expedition rose early in order to witness sunrise at Ayers Rock.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other expeditions also recorded the event.

 

 

Ayers Rock from the official sunrise viewing area.  I have no clue why anyone would want to view sunrise from this angle.  The Olgas can be seen to the left of Ayers Rock.

 

 

Ayers Rock in the Evening

 

The expedition returned to Ayers Rock in time to watch the sun sink low over the Red Centre.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Many people waited for the sun to set but were mildly disappointed when the sky became covered in clouds, blotting out the sinking sun.