Trip Report - Mt Solitary - 28 June 2009 Rogo (leader) Roger, Margaret, Ann, Alan, Kathy, Mike, Don, Karin, Joe and Geoff Mount Solitary is a well known landmark in the Blue Mountains landscape. Most bushwalkers have traversed or visited it on numerous occasions. The walk started from the Golden Stairs. It was a beautifully clear day, the birds were singing and the track adorned with a prolific display of ferns. Rogo called a stop at the Ruined Castle track, not to catch our breath, but to climb the castle. The group easily climbed the battlements to the top. The views were excellent but the icy wind forced most of us to a lower level where morning tea was enjoyed in the sun out of the wind. The ascent of the Koorowal Knife Edge began. Once on top we regrouped then set off along the well worn track.  There is no track to Greenfields Lookout. Rogo had been there on a previous walk and took us down a slope through thick scrub. Greenfield Lookout was a great place for lunch. The wind had dropped and we were able to point out many well known landmarks to the South – Kanangra Walls,  Mt Colong, Mt Cloudmaker and many more. The climb back to the track was easier through lighter scrub. We were careful to note where we regained the track for return visits. Melvilles Lookout was much closer to the track and rewarded us with commanding views and several rainbows in the valley below. The group made good time crossing Solitary and descending the Eastern side of the Kooroowal Knife Edge. There were great views on both sides. We could see rain falling in the valleys but so far we had remained dry. The walk along the old cableway was most enjoyable in the afternoon. A great day out ended with a demanding climb up the Golden Stairs. This climb can really test muscle and lung power if you push yourself.  Rogo was up front and even singing as he climbed! Thanks Rogo for a classic Blue Mountains walk.   Mt Solitary Upper Blue Mountains Bushwalking Club Copyright © 2009 - 2011 - Upper Blue Mountains Bushwalking Club