THIS TRIP IS FULL. Please do not sign up.
It's that time of year! Cocktails on the Castle is a long running tradition in the Club where a group of us hike to the top of the Castle, dress up in fine evening attire and eat the most extravagant food we can carry. In 2020 there were pancakes, sushi, cheese platters (including a silver tray), two guitars, a flute, a violin and a table. Although this trip is all a bit of fun, it's important to remember that the Castle is a difficult, technical hike with rope-assisted rock scrambling (if you fall you die!) at the top and no access to drinking water.
https://bushwalkingnsw.com/walk.php?nid=807
https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/8112093/identity-of-mystery-daredevil-diners-revealed/
Please write whether you’re self-sufficient or not. Self-sufficient means that you are able to safely and comfortably do this hike alone. Please also describe your prior hiking experience when signing up. For example, past overnight hikes, camping experience, the heaviest backpack you’ve carried while going hiking.
Signing up does not guarantee a spot on the trip. I will send a confirmation email on the 19th of September (Friday). Attending the pre-trip meeting is mandatory.
Day 1 27/9/2025 (Saturday):
Leave Canberra at 6:00
Arrive at Long Gully Campground at around 9:30
Arrive at peak at around 16:00
Party
Day 2 28/9/2025 (Sunday):
Leave campsite at around 9:00
Return to Long Gully Campground at around 14:00
Return to Canberra at around 17:30
A comprehensive gear list is available in the ANUMC Safety Document in the “Bushwalking and Camping” section.
Bring at least 3-4L of water per person. It will be hot, you will probably drink a lot of water, and there’s little water on the mountain itself. Bonus tip: leave extra water in the car for when you finish the hike.
It is difficult to stake out tents on the top of the castle, so ideally bring a free-standing tent or a bivy bag.
Bring formal dress and fancy food!