Wake Up and Walk | Solo Hiking 700km on the Australian Alps Walking Track
Tom’s Outdoors presents Wake Up and Walk. A documentary short film following Dominic Erbacher’s 23 day, 700km Australian Alps Walking Track journey and the ups and downs of solo hiking.
Filmed and edited by Dean Johnson
The AAWT is the oldest long-distance walking trail in Australia. The track traverses 680 kilometres of Australian alpine through Victoria, NSW and ACT. On the 26th of February, Dom left the historic Victorian town, Walhalla, arriving in Tharwa on the outskirts of Canberra early on the morning of the 20th of March.
Leeches, snakes, scarce water, injuries, unmarked terrain, steep climbs, blisters and inclement weather threatened to unravel the journey. Stick fishing, ever-changing vistas, rewarding summits, trail magic and friendships made along the way were just a few of the better moments. Regardless of the lows and in pursuit of the highs, the daily purpose became as simple as wake up and walk. A simple, yet astounding notion. But, we are reminded that it’s valuing time outdoors that makes a hike. Not the kilometres walked, the peaks climbed or the nights camped.
“Wherever you go and however you go about it, make it your own.”
Interesting Statistics
Distance walked: 704km
Elevation gained: 28000m
Peaks climbed: 30+
Food drops: 5
Highest elev: 2176m
Lowest elev: 239m
Fish caught on a stick: 2
Helpful Links
Dom's Instagram where he documented the trip.
