19 September 2021
Distance 18.5 km
Sneaky Sunday solo run to fill in the last gap in the section of the trail between Tanunda and Burra. This would also complete the trail from the southern starting point at Cape Jervis to a point north of Spalding. This plus the 50 km of the trail in the Flinders Ranges that I did as part of the Hubert 100 trail race, would put me over 60% of the trail complete. Dropping my bike off at Busch Road on the way, I made my way to Tothill Gap. Although there were other cars there indicating walkers or other runners on the trail, once again I had the trail completely to myself.
Once again tracking along the base of Tothill Range and with Apoinga Lagoon to my left, the trail was gently undulating through various paddocks for about 3 km until the first climb at Niblet Gap. It was a lovely clear sunny day, perfect spring weather and ideal for running.
After descending from Niblet Gap, the trail joined Range Road (unsealed), gently undulating before a steady gradual incline up to Webb Gap.
Turning eastward onto Webbs Gap Road, there is a camp site and water if needed, and a number of ruins of old settlers buildings.
Turning south at the junction with Kernchens Road (also unsealed), the trail then leaves the roads and after heading slightly uphill, resumes its course along the base of Tothill Range.
The trail still has some elevation, so there are some nice views, including some golden canola fields ready for harvesting.
Unfortunately as I rounded the last corner about 100 metres from my finishing point, I rolled my ankle badly on a rock hidden under the long grass. Fortunately I had a cracking tail wind on a flat road for my bike ride back to the car, but regrettably I was then out of running action for 6 weeks. That combined with the annual trail closure for fire season (November to April) brought my 2021 Heysen Trail Adventure to an end. To be resumed in 2022!
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