The trail out to the Sphinx was longer but far less steep than what we did yesterday to the Pyramid summit but the day was meant to be even hotter so we got an early start.

The trail winds it’s way up a gentle ridge and there is plenty to explore just off track

I’t a tad over 3.5km out to the Sphinx, gentle uphill most of the way.

Given the weather forecast of heat heat and more heat we opted not to do the side trip to the top of the castle.

I skip further down the trail gets you to turtle rock. The track end here and you could scramble up but, again with the day heating up, we just have morning tea then head back to camp.

By the time we get back we’ve worked up a sweat and decide it’s a good time to visit an underground river.