Date: 8/5/2013
Who: Mark and myself
Length: about 4 miles
Time: about 2 hours
Weather: about 70 degrees, sunny
This hike was near Innsbruck, Austria, during a Summer vacation with my former college roommate Mark. We started in the town of Igls with a cable car ride on the Patscherkofelbahn. Then, hiked the Zirbenweg (Zirben path) in an easterly direction across to a chairlift which took us back down to the valley. A bus ride returned us back to the parking lot.
The hike offered great views of Innsbruck and the Inn valley. The trail is named after the Zirbe, which is a type of pine tree (“Swiss Pine” in English). The wood is desirable for furniture and carving. And, the pine cones are used to flavor schnapps.
The chairlift ride down was a real moment of joy for me (Mark said it was for him as well). The views were breathtaking. Thank you, Frau Horak, for recommending this hike to us! More blog posts will follow with additional Austria hikes.
Note, the purple flowers in the video are not Enzian as stated. I think they are Harebell.
Mark and Chris above Innsbruck
View Colorado Chris Hikes in a larger map
First, I’m insanely jealous that you and Mark went hiking in Austria. Second, great idea for a blog. Third, hope you and your family are well.
Over and out-
Elizabeth
So great Chris!! Sounds like you had a great adventure! Love to you and Michelle from the Finns!
Looked awesome! Loved the views from the chair lift descent. Cordelia always asks, “Where is he?” when we watch the videos, and she gets very excited to see you! Wow, glad you got that trip in, and look forward to more posts later.
Keep wandering 😉
This should be a yearly trip to get in some prima European hiking. They know how to do it in the Alps, don’t they?! Sweet, ever so quiet, chair ride down to the valley.