6.6 miles ascent 2376′ descent 1312
A chilly, brisk morning motivated us to rise quickly and get downstairs to the warm dining room. We enjoyed chatting with other hikers before heading out to savor the day’s adventures.
Presently, the path lead into a lovely, enchanting forest.
As we emerged from the forest, the trail lead us to a high, alpine pasture bordered by the cliffs below Vorderes Sonnwendjoch.
The mountain scenery revealed more amazing sights as we continued on.
The gorgeous views of the Inntal Valley have been a frequent companion on this trek and today was no different.
We joined a gravel track and descended through the beauty around us.
This track came up from the valley and continued uphill, a steady march. Long switchbacks brought us through a large bowl.
Stunning cliffs were above, with a picturesque chalet, Schermsteinalm, near their base. The chalet was not open to the public, unfortunately, so we sat on the porch to eat our small lunch, taking pleasure in the opportunity to rest. To our surprise, however, the chalet was inhabited and its single occupant came out to welcome us. Our conversation was brief, with my limited German and his nonexistent English. We bid him farewell and continued on our way.
The trail contoured around a steep, rocky hillside filled with wildflowers. A brief rest provided an opportunity to enjoy the countryside.
The climbing increased in intensity as we rounded the shoulder of the hillside looking up to Grubalackenspitze. Cresting Krahnsattel col, we were at the top of a large bowl. Many, low lying flowers clung to the mountain in the wind, including a rare patch of elusive edelweiss.
Working our way down into the bowl, we were treated to a view of our day’s destination on a hill in the distance.
Navigating large, slippery rocks, boggy trail conditions and friendly cows as we approached the hut…
After a very enjoyable morning’s walk we arrived at our evening’s refuge, Erfurterhütte, which provided a delicious lunch in a bustling dining room filled with many day-trippers and hikers.
Those pics would enliven anyone’s day!
We are blessed to appreciate Creation!