T he first day of a multi-day hike is often filled with optimism, despite the heavy load on your back. You’re leaving a busy life behind and venturing into the bush where constant phone notifications can’t reach you.

Our merry band of hikers – four adults and three kids – have opted for a five-day walk encompassing Smitt Rock and Eighth Gorge in Nitmiluk national park, 30km north-east of Katherine in Australia’s Northern Territory .

The park covers a vast area, including 13 spectacular gorges carved out of rusty red sandstone. In the Jawoyn Dreaming story , the water flows through tracks made by Bolung, also known as the Rainbow Serpent.

View image in fullscreen Tegan Forder navigates the rugged path: ‘It’s a rocky challenge for my poor ankles.’ Photograph: Claire Salter

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