This is the third of four hikes undertaken in Austria. Truth be told, each one has been tough; alternatively, we're less strong than we think.
An unhappy editor is forced to 'walk the plank'.
Sometimes the pressure is just too great...a need to let it out or through.
We're most grateful for crazy people in the world. They create excitement, challenges, amusement, danger and keep one on the toes (or in peril). Why would anyone wish to build a type of ladder extending through a gorge accumulating over twelve hundred feet of elevation gain following an earlier walk of fourteen hundred (2,600 total) to reach the beginning of the gorge? Beats us but it sure provided a wonderful experience. The power of the waterflow was stunning, the sights and colors extravagant, the surprises terrific and the exertion level, sweat breaking. And typical of much of Europe's alpine experiences, there's usually a restaurant or refugio to provide a bunk or refreshments or both to the weary hiker. In certain ways, The Europeans sure know how to live...then again, they've been doing this for a long time...between wars. We mention the latter as we have come across memorials all over the mountains. In addition, it's clear to a viewer to realize the religious fervor of the old Europe—the mountains and other places contain many religious symbols and relics. Modern Europe is all about the Euro and hand-held gadgets.
Some perspective: More than halfway up and looking in and toward the top of the gorge.
Standing within 15 feet of the flow, we felt the raw power.
Tears from all angles.
In our second visit to Austria, the first to Seefeld, now Graz and the surrounding towns, one can't help notice and enjoy the beauty of the mountains and land. Frequent rain keeps everything so green and lush. The freeways and roads are in good condition, the suburbs neat and tidy and the flowers, nicely cultivated, give off color, beauty and fragrances. The birds are forever chirping but with such thick foliage, who can ever spot them. One final point: When walking along bridges, over precarious edges and holding onto support rails, it makes a difference knowing Germanic engineering is supporting one.
In the first stage of climbing some 2,500 steps, the editor goes above a waterfall, holding on to slippery supports.
Upon reaching the top, we think we're back in Africa as we spot an Ibex or two. Nice bonus. It's a glorious feeling sharing the environment with the wild animals compared with being in a vehicle or at a zoo. Helps when they're not hungry predators.
'Smell that Spring air. Gotta love it.' If I can just rid the air of human odor, life could not be better. Alternatively, he might be reaching to scratch his back.
Had to be a young male showing off.
She continues to rise...still no happier.
Let the flow, flow.
Let's put the waterflows to bed now.
'Tea for two'. After a more than 2 hours steep climb, to find a restaurant at the top of the mountain is a wonderful thing. Tea never tastes as good. Particularly in Europe and often in South America, the refugios are a delight to find on mountain tops. Another thing we find terrific, in fact, it tickles us in a manner of speaking, is walking into different countries after cresting mountains. It's a feeling hard to explain; nevertheless, wonderful.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
We remember, in fact, we won't forget cousin Basil who passed from this world recently. A vibrant and dynamic man, he suffered terribly this last decade. We cannot believe he is no longer with us but hope he is in a better place. May his soul be elevated.
Bye.
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