Rinnensee

Friday, 26th June

Walk: Oberissalm, Alpein Alm, Franz Sunn Hutte, Rinnensee & return
Start Point: Oberissalm Distance: 8.5 miles
Ascent: 3,126 feet Descent: 3,126 feet
Max Alt: 8,727 feet Time: 6.75 hours
Weather: Sunny and hot
Comments: Taxis took us from the hotel up the Oberberg Valley to our start point. There was a good zig zag path to the Alpein Alm which was being prepared to open the following day. From there we made our way up to the Franz Senn Hutte. Taking a break here we were able to watch a delivery of 'refreshments' and the method of transport for such deliveries. Another climb took us across boulder fields and snowfields to Lake Rinnensee - what a spectacular sight!!! The lake was almost completely covered with ice and snow and was the ideal spot for lunch. We then returned to the Franz Senn Hutte and took a slightly different route back to the head of the Oberberg Valley for the taxis.

Leaving the hotel by taxi . . .

to drive to the head of the Oberberg valley

We start to ascend . . .

on a zig-zagging route . . .

which allows us to spot the other group taking a break on a bend

The Alpein Alm comes into view but it isn't open yet

Nice flower but can't identify it

A waterfall leads us up to . . .

the Franz Senn Hutte

As we take our break . . .

new supplies arrive . . .

and a motorised transporter makes light work of moving goods

The other group arrive just as we are leaving

Could this be a snow shelter?

Some sort of vetch perhaps?

Heading up into the snow . . .

where we cross a snow field . . .

to reach Lake Rinnennsee, situates at over 8,700 feet

Most of the surface of the lake is frozen . . .

and it is surrounded by a boulder field

Taking a closer . . .

I think I'll give the wild water swim a miss!

Al took a number of shots . . .

so it's difficult to choose . . .

which to keep

Clearer reflections . . .

as we leave the lake behind

Al - leading from the back!

Picnic spot . . .

with a fantastic view

The snow field is a bit trickier going downhill

Heading down from the Franz Senn Hutte . . .

the Alpein Alm can just be seen . . .

but looking back up the Oberbergbach . . .

the water seems to come through an arch

Taxi!!

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