10 miles ascent 850′ descent 1640′
The weather forecast for the day was 100% rain and was to be our wettest day of the entire trek. To save a couple of hours of uphill road walking, Ben dropped us off at the carpark at Wimm Farm. The route followed a logging track which wound along up through the forest and several times we had to step off the road, giving way to big logging vehicles as they passed. Eventually, the forest opened up, revealing several holiday chalets and another stile to climb.
By this time the rain was taking its toll on us. As we needed to add a layer of clothing, the appearance of a tiny farm out-building gave us that opportunity. Thankfully, we were able to duck into this building, escape the rain, and change into warmer attire.
Continuing on our way up the mountainside, we became aware of a herd of chamois or gams (goat-like antelope) grazing on a nearby hill. Interestingly, they managed to keep their distance but remained within sight.
Several times it appeared that the grazing animals were no longer watching and had moved on, however, at least one chamois always had an eye on us just in case we became a threat.
As we left Kreuzeinalm Hochleger the trail ascended into a pasture of low-lying confers and pine trees.
Finally, we reached a grassy ridge where (according to my trail guidebook) the views of the distant Brandenberger Ache valley were stunning. Unfortunately, since the rain and mist were closing in again, we were unable to see this gorgeous sight.
As we neared the Rosskogelsattel we did enjoy the high, alpine pasture and were viewed by our new, grazing friends.
The trail began its descent to Zireinersee, another sight that had been described as quite beautiful. And again, we were denied the view since the fog and clouds obscured the area. Instead, we had to watch our step on a very slippery path that had become a cascading stream.
Once at lake level we could finally see the Zireinersee which was most attractive and on a hot afternoon would surely provide a refreshing swim!
We had to climb over rocks and avoid boggy paths, to continue our trek. We did miss one of our trail markers in the mist and had to retrace our steps to resume the trip in the right direction.
The route eventually took us through more pastureland, then onto a very dense, rainforest trail. Once on this trail, we soon arrived at our refuge for that evening, the Bayreutherhütte, a very welcome sight! The comforting thoughts of dry clothes, hot chocolate and a warm meal began to race through my mind.
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