Recently, I had planned a bike and hike in the Karwendel mountains, but I had to cancel due to health reasons. My wife, eager to meet a friend, offered me the chance to have a day for myself. She encouraged me to “overwrite” the bad experience with a good one. With this in mind, my goal became clear: I would embark on a bike and hike and just try it again!
Autumn Weather Uncertainties
The timing was right as it was already late October, bringing typical autumn weather patterns. The day presented a chill in the morning air, with colder temperatures in the shade. As the sun shone, it warmed up, and I had to consider the winds, which varied between chill and warmth in the mountains. Additionally, I expected certain cloud cover, which would lead to sudden temperature drops I had to prepare for. This unpredictability made it challenging to decide what to bring and wear. I didn’t want to over-pack my backpack with extra clothes, especially since my camera and lens already occupied a good portion of the space.
Setting Off on the Adventure
Regardless, I packed my gear, my jacket and long hiking trousers. After a few kilometers on asphalt, my chosen route forked off onto a forest gravel road leading upwards. As I started the climb, I got off my jacket pretty soon. This time, I made good use of the heart rate monitor I had recently purchased, trying to keep my heart rate below a certain threshold to avoid exhausting myself too early. At some steep inclines, I paused once or twice to cool down before continuing. Several times I recalled my previous struggle that had led to cancel the adventure. The cycling was still tough this time but for sure not comparable! It was significantly better this time which was such a good and motivating feeling!
However, one aspect was not ideal: I had chosen to wear my trekking shoes, which do not have the cycling click-system for the bike. I soon realized how much I valued having the clips for cycling uphill. It’s a detail I’ll ensure I remember for future bike and hike adventures. Just recently I also saw hiking boots and shoes that had the click system in the soles. Until then I didn’t know that exists. But since this bike & hike I’m thinking about getting proper bike&hike shoes …
Despite that, the ride was pleasant. I managed to push through the last steep part of the ascent and locked my bike to a signpost, completing the first 650 meters of elevation for the day. I shared a short conversation with a fellow hiker who passed by, then took a moment to rest. I ate an energy bar and allowed my legs some recovery time, a valuable lesson I took from past bike and hike experiences.
Enjoying the Scenic Hike
Eager to continue, I began the hiking portion. According to the map, I had about 250 meters more in elevation to the first summit, with the option of another 250 meters to a second one if I felt inclined. The trail was gorgeous, and the temperature was comfortable as I crossed a beautiful alpine meadow midway through the journey. I stopped to take my first photos of the day, treasuring the scenic views that surrounded me.
As I moved on, I noticed that the remainder of the climb to the summit was mostly pathless. While searching for a trail, I met another hiker who informed me the trail I was looking for did indeed not exist. So the climb wasn’t mostly pathless – it was just pathless. Gratefully, I accepted his offer to team up, and we made our way to the summit together.
A Rewarding Summit Experience
Upon reaching the top, I took a few photos and enjoyed an hour of pleasant conversation with my hiking companion. We exchanged stories and advices about routes in the area. Together, we enjoyed the calm and warm atmosphere that surrounded us. Eventually, I decided against pursuing the second summit. I could feel the effort of the cycling in my legs, and I realized that seeking out an additional summit wouldn’t heighten the joy of the day. So I left the other summit for another adventure that I was already looking forward to doing while deciding against it that day.
Descending with Gratitude
After a while, we decided to descend back at the same time. We parted ways during the descent, as he wanted to check out something while I paused to take more pictures. Later, we coincidentally met again as we returned to our bikes. It turned out he also had locked his bicycle nearby, not far from where I had locked mine. We exchanged goodbyes and well wishes, and I took a few last photos before hopping back on my bike for the return trip home.
A Perfect Ending to the Day
It was great timing when I finished my biking adventure, as my wife had just returned home from meeting her friend. Reflecting on the day, I realized it had been a wonderful outing. I made a new acquaintance, spent quality time in nature, captured a couple of pleasing photographs, had a new route in mind already for the next visit and learned valuable lessons for future trips. Could it get any better?
