When is the last time you saw a sunrise?
I should probably clarify a little. When I say sunrise, I literally mean seeing the sun rise. That means seeing the rosy fingers of dawn emerge from the darkness and creep their way across the horizon until the sun, that glorious golden-robbed orb, peaks over the horizon and finally turns night to day. To see a sunrise is to see the stars and the blue sky. To spot the moon (if it’s out) and the sun.
That means being up at 5a.m.
It sounds a little ridiculous, getting up during the work week two (or so) hours before normal just to see the sun. Why can't I just drop by after work to see a sunset instead? But as soon as those rosy fingers of dawn started to show their color, you'll begin to realize how calming for the soul these moments are.
So, although you could find these caches anytime, to get the full experience you really should make the effort to see the whole sunrise? Then you can decide, was worth it?
The Cache:
The first in the 'Sunrise Series', this is a super easy hide so that you can spend less time looking at a screen and more time watching the sunrise. Located along the Mitchell River Silt Jetties (a.k.a The Spit), this spot offers marvelous views over Lake King and is simply stunning early in the morning. Please avoid the temptation to simple park-and-grab. The true value in this cache is the adventure that comes with it. Your looking for a 1 litre clip-top Sistema plastic container with a log book, pen and a some great little tradables inside.
What to do:
- Check the weather for the day of your planned outing, bighting wind and icy rain will ruin any hope of an enjoyable experience (remember however that the most amazing sunrises often occur when there is cloud about).
- Check what time first-light is at for this time of year (remember, you want to be there before the sun rises)
- Aim to arrive at GZ atleast 30 mins before the sun is supposed to rise. It will still be dark but in the end you'll be happy that you did it.
- You find the cache quickly and then sit back and enjoy the spectacular show before you.
What to bring:
- A friend or family member to come along; early mornings are always easier when you know someone else is sharing your misery (and they'll keep you accountable to!)
- Foldable chairs\picnic blanket
- Warm clothes + a blanket
- A thermos of your favourite hot drink and some cups
- Snacks are a great idea too
- Camera (feel free to share your photos)
- Phone apps such as 'Viewranger Skyline' are great for places like these as it shows you where you are actually looking.
Happy Hunting and remember to simple relax and enjoy!