Blaser

Saturday, 20th June

Walk: Koppenek, Kloster Maria Waldrast, Ochsenalm, Blaserhutte, Kloster Maria Waldrast, Koppenek, Serlesbahn
Start Point: Bus to Serlesbahn Distance: 10 miles
Ascent: 3,438 feet Descent: 3,438 feet
Max Alt: 7,208 feet Time: 5.25 hours
Weather: Intermittent light rain with snow on Blaser
Comments: Taking the higher route we made our way to Kloster Maria Waldrast where we had a brief stop. Passing Ochsenalm we continued through the woodland to reach a pleasant meadow. The gradual incline through the meadow became a zig zag path that climbed more steeply up the head of the valley including some scree sections, eventually reaching the snowline. Walking through snow and in mist we decided to head directly for Blaserhutte rather than going to the summit. A very pleasant time was spent warming ourselves beside the fire and enjoying the soup, etc. Donning all the waterproofs we retraced our route with the mist eventually clearing. We then returned on the lower route to take the gondola back to the bus stop and on to the hotel.

It's a little damp as we set out . . .

heading for Kloster Maria Waldrast for a short break

Zooming in over the treetops shows the results of the previous night's snow

There is still low cloud around as we head into the woods

Big Ears

Adjusting layers as we take a moment to look back down our route . . .

and across to the jagged summits

Alpine butterwort

We eventually reach the snowline . . .

where an alpine kidney vetch peeps out

Enjoying a hot chocolate in Blaserhutte . . .

while some of the group take advantage of the enclosed heater . . .

as we wait for lunch

Looking through the window - not very inviting . . .

but we are wrapped up warmly as we leave

The mist clears as we descend the zig zag path . . .

and cross the scree section . . .

to reach the meadow . . .

where it is time for a nap

A couple of horses . . .

enjoy the grass

Work progresses on the new reservoir seen earlier . . .

and we finally reach Koppenek ready to head down on the gondola

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